*UPDATE: Wii Fit
If you have children — or simply don't live in a cave — you've undoubtedly heard of the Nintendo Wii Video Game Console
Normally, video games are associated with couch potatoes and blamed as one of the causes of our rising childhood obesity problem. But, the Wii changed things up with their innovative, action-packed technology.
Not only did they add a physical element to their system, but they made it extremely easy to learn and use, opening their market up to everyone from children to grandparents and everyone in between.
The thing that makes the Wii so different is the controller. Instead of simply pressing buttons and not needing to move anything other than your fingers, the new Nintendo controller allows you to move your entire body to affect what you see on the screen.
For example, in one of their most popular titles, Wii Sports
Check out this first-look video of Wii Fit
With such a fun and new way to get sedentary people up and moving, some gyms have even begun setting up full Wii rooms where members can play and burn up to 125 calories per game.
Nintendo is going to take this trend one step further with their upcoming game, Wii Fit. Wii Fit
The game will be releasing in Japan in time for Christmas, but we'll have to wait until early 2008 in the US. That doesn't mean you can't get a Wii now though and enjoy the Wii Sports games and other titles.
Having a "Wii Night" at home is a great way to spend some fun family time, while helping to keep everyone healthy and fit at the same time.
Of course, with all these benefits, the Nintendo Wii
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My husband has finally taken his head out of the stand and discovered the Nintendo Wii. He wants to get on for the kids for Christmas because he has heard stories like yours about the fitness benefits. I keep telling him that if he wants to get one, he can't wait until the last minute because they sell out as soon as they hit the stores here. WE need to be on the lookout now!
My husband and I purchased a Wii yesterday and it's awesome. Last night we played tennis, went bowling, and competed in round of golf. Golf was the hardest, it seems the remotes are sensitive to a follow through swing.
Glad you found one Jennifer! I agree that getting the swing right in golf is pretty hard at first, but once you get the hang of it, it's a breeze.
Have fun, and be sure to grab a copy of Wii Fit when it's released.
NEEDED: A HOW-TO PROGRAM FOR MAJOR SPORTS. NEEDS TO INCLUDE EQUIPMENT AND FIELD/ PLAY AREA SPECS; PLAYING RULES; PHILOSOPHY; TECHNIQUE – I COULD WRITE THE TEXT FOR YOU IF YOU WOULD ADD THE GRAPHICS/ELECTRONICS. SCHOOLS WOULD GO BONKERS OVER IT!
FRANK WORKMAN
Hey Frank,
That sounds like a cool idea. I'm not the right guy to talk to for graphics/electronics work, but if you find someone and get a site up, I'd be glad to link to it.
Keep me updated.
-FitBuff Brandon
FitBuff Brandon:
Would there be someone in thw Wii company who might address the issue of a sports tutorial program . . . . In my previous email, I had said I could write the text (which I would love to do), but that element is not a necessary part of the request – I would just like to see Wii take this idea and fly with it – it is a tremendously-needed product.
Frank Workman
Hey Frank,
There may be someone, but I have no affiliation with Nintendo or Wii. You would probably need to go through Nintendo's customer service line or their website for more information on exactly who you need to contact.
Good luck with it!
The wii ROCKS i love it but one of the wii remotes flew into our wall. were sueing. HAhahaha.
Haha, I remember when the Wii first came out, they did a news story about all the damages that were caused by wild, flying controllers.
My fiance bought me a Wii and my mom got so addicted to Bowling, she has a higher score then me and Im 20 years old vs her 48 year old self. she even wants to buy one for herself for when I move out and take it with me. We havent had any trouble with flying remotes but the dogs have got hit in the face a few times for walking infront of us lol. I love my Wii! I really want the fitness thing. Boxing just isnt enough hehehe
Hey Shannon,
Stop getting schooled by Mom! haha
And yeah, I knew there was a lot of buzz around Wii Fit, but it seems to be selling out everywhere. I had no idea, it was going to be this much of a hit, and most of the reviews seem positive so far too.
The Wii Fit is an amazing game that is fun as well as is good for your health! I think more video game makers should follow Nintendo's lead and create systems where the user has more control. We'd be way healthier! :)
Wii Fit is just awesome. I love the game play and the games like We Ski. Another great update from Nintendo for Wii.
I agree, a few of my friends have Wii's (that's what she said…), and the novelty never wears off. They are legitimately fun and entertaining each and every time we play.
Wii Fit Plus, which came out this month, improves on the original in a lot of ways. You can create custom routines, track calories, and weigh your dog (?). It also adds a lot of new games and a few new exercises. It should be easy to find this holiday.
We have become addicted to Wii!!! We bowl everyday and now bought the Wii fit, which is so much fun. My favorite is the run, because you actually run through a park in a city and the graphics are great. Its amazing and brings the whole family together! Love it!