How to Exercise While Playing Video Games
- 1). Exercise with your games. Rather than attempting to exercise during a match in Killzone 2, purchase one of the exercise-themed video games currently available. The Wii in particular has games such as Wii Fit and EA Sports Active that walk gamers through several exercises including running and lifting. They even monitor progress and offer hints and tips.
- 2). Use a Nintendo DS to exercise anywhere. The DS has software that teaches users Pilates and yoga, and works as a portable fitness coach that can be used to track daily progress. The software Personal Trainer: Walking includes pedometers that can be used to count steps taken throughout he day.
- 3). Exercise at a quicker pace with rhythm games such as those found in the Dance Dance Revolution series. These games include dance mats that gamers use to match the onscreen directions. These games are about continual improvement, and working out with them is a side effect of trying to gain high scores on each section.
- 4). Combine traditional gaming with low-impact exercises. Games that don't require quick reflexes can be played while jogging in place or any leg movement, as legs are rarely used in the control of a game. Those looking to work out with their arms can combine light lifting with games played on the Wii using only the Wii Remote, leaving one hand always free for exercise.
- 5). Get up and move around. Many games released encourage gamers to become involved in the game beyond sitting on a couch. Games such a Rock Band and Guitar Hero can be played standing, or with players moving around mimicking the stage shows of a real band. The more intense these movements are, the greater the physical benefits.
