How Fit Does the WiiFit Get You?
Credit: SashaW
There’s no doubt that the WiiFit is cool. I mean, it’s a video game that encourages physical activity. But, will it really get you fit? That’s what some researchers from the American Council on Exercise asked, and the results weren’t nearly as “fit” as you’d think. The study looked at six of the most aerobically challenging activities featured in the game: Free Run, Island Run, Free Step, Advanced Step, Super Hula Hoop and Rhythm Boxing. The results? While they all burned more calories than just sitting, the exercises burned fewer calories than if you had done them on your own without the WiiFit (think jogging or hitting a step class). However, researchers say the WiiFit’s interactivity and encouraging messages could help people stick to their workout routines, which is half the battle.
—Jenn