WiiFit - Worth It?

When I first heard about a balance board used as part of a video game for the Nintendo Wii, the reviews were less than glowing. I remember seeing videos that poked fun at it , and questioned why anyone would want to use a goofy looking plastic rectangle to find out whether or not they were standing still.

Early video - WiiFit Parody (July, 2007)

But, as months passed, I started hearing more positive reviews and before long I wanted one of those WiiFit contraptions.

I’m one of those parents who loves playing video games with the kids, so I really liked the concept of a workout game. I often talk to my kids about the importance of staying fit and exercising, yet I rarely make time to work out.

Would this thing actually motivate me more than the gym a couple of miles away?

Yes!

Last month, by a stroke of bizarre luck, I managed to get a WiiFit and, sure enough, I find myself feeling eager to work out for at least 30 minutes a few times a week.

Rather than a standard yoga DVD, Nintendo has successfully made this game interesting, fun and effective. Sometimes my Mii will be sliding around on a virtual block of ice, looking like a penguin, catching fish for dinner . Other times, I’ll be shushing down a virtual mountain, trying to beat an earlier time in my slalom event.

Some French Guy’s Slalom Runs on WiiFit (not mine)

Those are just two of the many games included in the WiiFit . You’ll choose games from four categories: balance games, yoga, strength training and aerobics. The more you play, the more games you unlock.

If you like to run, but you’re getting tired of your treadmill, the running paths will make you feel as if you’re traversing a long steel girded bridge or going down a hill on a path in a forest. Sure, you could go out on real pathways or trails but if it’s pouring rain or 102 degrees, I’d pick the Wii in a heartbeat.

Video of some guy running using WiiFit

My whole family likes the WiiFit . Really! My hubby has been working out nearly every day now that he has found certain things he likes within it. A guy who works out fairly regularly as it is, he works up a sweat and feels as if he had a real workout. The best part for me is hearing him chuckle and laugh as he does it.

Any cons?

Yes.

The yoga and strength training categories are not great for the kids. They don’t seem to enjoy those games and the games don’t seem to be made for them. Push ups, leg lifts, and jack knifes with a virtual trainer are just not too exciting to most seven year olds. Likewise, the Zen focus in the yoga category rewards those who stay calm and still. Might be fun for many adults after a hectic, stress filled day at the office but for a stir crazy five year old boy? Not so much.

Luckily, the balance games and aerobics have plenty of fun activities that will maintain kids’ interest and keep them coming back for more.

Bottom line: WiiFit is fun and worthy of a spot in your video game library.