Colin StevensWii Fit - Or, how to love 6:30am
May 28th 2008 06:49
You will look this dorky using it
The Wii Fit represents a lot of things to many people. An opportunity for an improved lifestyle through exercise, or a new way in which to be mocked by fellow 30-somethings. I fall into the latter category.
Leotards not included
A fiendishly simple device, this oversized and stylised set of scales can measure minute shifts in weight from side to side and back and forwards. I felt fairly confident climbing onboard for the first time as it is quite hefty and feels as though my moderate weight would not cause any small, high pitched screams of "help me!".
The set up is incredibly simple, so if you are blessed with an ample waistline and the gift of ignorance you will be well catered for. With the Wii and the Fit synched the familiar Wii screens will guide you through a few tests to determine your Wii Fit age.
After being told that you are physically five years older than you are ( I think I was let off lightly) you can receive salvation by exercise. Initially it is pretty disappointing. There are very few exercises unlocked and only a small number of reps for each. Thankfully things open up in a short time, and I found that now I am a couple of weeks in there are ample things to do, perfectly suiting the minimal amount of enthusiasm I have. Even the much publicised issue of being unable to set a program consisting of multiple excercises ceases to be an factor as you become proficent with the controls.
If you are less than serious about the whole thing the balance games are great fun, even if I have found myself running for cover on hearing someone about to enter the room. The first time playing the hula hoop game almost lead to a dislocated pelvis. This may have had more to do with me than any design fault though. The only part that made me cringe was the jogging. You have to step on the spot for a few minutes, simulating the experience of running. Outside. In the fresh air. Except there isn't any. Outside. Or fresh air. You decide.
It also tries to help if you wish to track your progress, but to be honest there is little use in it, seeing as the current system of BMI (body mass index) means that an 80kg man would need to drop over 10kg to get to the 'ideal weight'. I actually check a government website to see if this was accurate, and strangely it was. My advise, unless you want to look like one of the Veronicas, is to ignore it.
All in all the Wii Fit is an amazing device. With support in future games already announced and a new, more intensive exercise program promised by EA in the near future, the Wii Fit board looks to be a good investment.
As to the important question: Will couch potatoes and sunlight fearing geeks get fit? Not with this alone. But it is a great way to get started and an ideal way to start a day. Just make sure no-one is home while you do.
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