Getting Fit, Wii Style

The Wii Fit is revolutionizing the way we get back into shape. Sure, home exercise equipment comes and goes and it's always been possible to get in condition from the convenience of home, but you're going to fall in love with the Wii Fit. You can't say that about a mini trampoline, treadmill, or ab roller.

What makes the Wii Fit so special? This is an interactive training program that tracks your progress, keeps you motivated, and provides relevant training tips as you go. The Wii Fit uses the Wii Balance Board and Wii Fit software which work with the Wii gaming console. The Wii Balance Board wirelessly transmits your weight, center of balance, and movements to the Wii Fit software which then works its wonders.

You start each Wii Fit session with a "body test" before moving on to training activities such as yoga, strength training, and aerobics. The body test measures your weight and body mass index, storing this information for later reference. After stepping on the Balance Board and having your measurements taken, the Wii Fit presents you with two balance tests. The results of the balance tests, your weight, and age are compiled, and you then see your "Wii Fit age."

This may sound fairly cut and dry but it's actually quite fun. The Wii Fit is compatible with Miis, so you can create your own Mii to represent yourself. Be forewarned that your Mii will change based on your weight. Overweight Miis are slightly pudgy, but still quite cute, in the Wii Fit plaza. If you've dreaded stepping on the scale in the past, you may find yourself actually looking forward to these body tests.

Once you've completed the body test, it's time to move on to the Wii Fit training sessions. The yoga and strength training exercises feature virtual 3D trainers that demonstrate the exercises and lead you through each step. These trainers also give you feedback based on your results. An onscreen display of the balance board typically shows you where your center of balance should be along with a real-time display of where it currently is. A pulsing circle, slowly going in and out, represents the desired breathing patterns. These displays help you to fine-tune your balance and concentrate on breathing properly while the movements and words of the virtual trainer show you what to do.

The Wii Fit's aerobics exercises feature your Mii and other Miis performing a variety of aerobic activities such as hula hoops, step aerobics, and jogging. Most use the Wii Balance Board. Simply climb aboard and rotate your hips in a large circle as your Mii hula hoops or step on and off alongside a chorus line of other Miis performing a step routine. Jog in place with the Wii Remote (not the Balance Board) and join other Miis as you jog around a scenic island course. You'll find yourself working up a sweat as you "play" these aerobic games, challenging yourself to break a new record.

The Wii Fit also incorporates balance games into the training. For example, lean forward and balance back and forth as your Mii skis down a steep slalom course or fly through the air like a professional ski jumper (or come crashing down in a giant snowball if your balance is off).

While you participate in the training, the Wii Fit keeps track of the number of minutes spent training, rewarding you with new levels, poses, exercises, and games as you accumulate more time. After reaching the desired 30 minutes of physical activity, the Wii Fit congratulates you and prompts you to take a break and drink plenty of water.

If you already have a Wii console, adding the Wii fit should cost just under $100. If you don't already own the Wii, then your investment will be significantly more. However, the Wii gaming system won't collect dust like your typical exercise equipment as it's fun for the entire family.

Each day is a brand new day. Step onto your Wii Balance Board and get into shape Wii style! You'll burn off the pounds and have a blast doing it.