The stereotypes of video games have changed drastically over the past few years. As technology has gotten smarter, video games have transformed from a mind-distracting pastime while sitting on your couch to active, fun, games that get you moving and your heart pumping.
In fact, video games and video game consoles have become a new fan-favorite when it comes to meeting fitness goals at home. Plus, turning your fitness routine into a game can help you create healthy competition and fun incentives to reach your goals.
The beginning of the new year is the perfect time to make some healthy changes in your life, so here are some of the best video games for fitness that can help you see out your New Year’s resolution.
1. Ring Fit Adventure
Nintendo Switch w/ Ring Fit
The Ring Fit Adventure comes with two physical components:
- The Ring-Con, which is a Pilates-style ring that you hold (and that the Joy-Con slots into)
- A Leg Strap which you attach to your leg
You’ll explore a fantasy adventure world while you defeat a body-building dragon using real-life exercises. Users will jog, high knee, and sprint through 20 worlds and over 100 levels, earning points along the way. Choose from long-form adventure or shorter mini games—there are games for every skill level. Ring Fit Adventure is a fantastical escape that makes working out fun.
2. Beat Saber
PC, PS4, PS VR
Although it isn’t marketed as a fitness video game, Beat Saber definitely should be. The virtual reality rhythm game will have you ducking, dodging, swinging your arms, and moving your body trying to slice flying blocks to the beat of some great music. You’ll be having so much fun playing the game, you won’t even realize that you’ve worked up a sweat.
3. Fitness Boxing
Nintendo Switch
Nintendo Switch lands on our best video games for fitness again! Channel your inner Rocky Balboa with Nintendo Switch’s Fitness Boxing. You’ll learn the boxing basics while playing this rhythmic exercise game and listening to tracks from One Direction, Maroon 5, Lady Gaga, and more.
You can track their progress over time so you can see how far you’ve come, plus you can adjust the workout intensity to match your skill level. Workouts range anywhere from 10–40 minutes, so you can work up a sweat no matter how busy your schedule.
4. Sports Champions 2
PS3 w/ PlayStation Move
Sports Champions isn’t a new game, but it’s certainly worthy of a spot on our list of best video games for fitness. Sports Champions 2 is similar to Sony’s version of Wii Sports. It offers games that let you participate in activities like:
- Bowling
- Archery
- Tennis
- Skiing
- Boxing
- Golf
Holding onto your PlayStation Move, you mimic the actions of each sport, using both muscular and cardiovascular strength. Compete against yourself, friends, or an imaginary player.
5. Zumba Fitness Party World
Xbox One and Wii
Even though this game came out in 2014, Zumba Fitness Party World is still one of the best video games for fitness. You can burn up to 1,000 calories an hour while you dance, shake, and move along to dozens of workout routines. With nearly 40 workouts to choose from, you’ll never get bored with your home workout.
6. Wii Fit Plus
Wii w/ Wii Balance Board
Featuring all the original games from Wii Fit original, Wii Fit Plus also has additional games and exercises to help you crush those fitness goals. Ranging from yoga, aerobics, strength training, and balance-conditioning, you can play these games just for fun or take part in specialized fitness routines.
Feel like working out with your friends? There are even some games that offer multiplayer activities.
7. Just Dance 2020
Nintendo Switch, PS4, Wii, and Xbox One
If cardio is what you’re looking for, Just Dance 2020 is the perfect game for your New Year’s resolution. Tracking your movement using your smartphone or motion controller, the game will award you with points depending on how spot-on your dance moves are. Not only is it a great workout, but you’ll also rock out to tunes from Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, Cardi B, and more.
8. BOXVR
Steam, Oculus Quest, and Oculus Rift
Designed and developed by a team of fitness instructors, BOXVR will have you punching pink and blue targets while ducking, dodging, squatting, and lunging. This is one of the best video games for fitness because it’s high-intensity, works all of your muscles, and helps promote better balance. You’ll definitely be sweating, so you might want to invest in some disposable covers for your headset.
Staying fit in 2021 has never been more fun with the best video games for fitness. Help yourself stick to those healthy New Year’s resolutions while dancing, boxing, and playing games in exciting virtual worlds. Happy fitness gaming!
