The Bottom Line
Nintendo Wii Fit is a very popular game for good reason, and from a stress management perspective, I find it to be a great tool for stress relief, especially for families, young adults, and even those who haven't normally been fans of video games.
Pros
- Nintendo Wii Fit can be used to relieve stress.
- Nintendo Wii Fit can also be used to get more exercise in a fun way.
- Nintendo Wii Fit offers opportunities to connect with family and friends.
- In some ways, the game is a motivator for doing more exercise than you might normally do.
Cons
- Using the game may not provide the same benefits as an exercise class.
- Because of the way the games are formatted, the flow of your exercise routine may feel disrupted.
Description
- Wii Fit comes with a 9'' x 11'' balance board which works as a scale, and measures balance when performing various exercises.
- There are four modes of game: yoga, strength training, balance and aerobics. All are fun!
- Wii Fit allows you to track your weight and progress over time, which can be a great motivator.
Guide Review - Nintendo Wii Fit
Nintendo's Wii Fit is a favorite among gamers and novices alike. Because of the emphasis on healthy activities and lack of negative themes, parents can actually be happy about their kids playing this game. And because of the focus on fitness, adults and children can feel good about themselves when they play.I'm especially fond of this game because of its use as a stress management tool. Here are some of the ways that the Wii Fit can actually help you relieve stress:
Wii Fit Teaches Deep Breathing
In the Yoga section of Wii Fit, there is a great deep breathing program. Deep breathing can help you relieve stress at any time and anywhere, so once you use Wii Fit to perfect your technique, you're set. The game gives basic information on how deep breathing works, it paces your breathing and it shows you what proper deep breathing should look like, so it's an effective tutorial. However, it also adds a balance component that's not entirely necessary in deep breathing, and doesn't give as thorough information as it might. (Read this article for more on breathing exercises.)
Wii Fit Teaches Yoga Poses:
The practice of yoga is an excellent stress reliever. Wii Fit teaches a nice variety of yoga poses and encourages you to practice. (See this review for more on Wii Fit Yoga.)
Wii Fit Facilitates Jogging, 'Skiing' and Other Activities
Exercise also has terrific stress relief benefits. Wii Fit has a sweat-inducing jogging program, and provides other fun, active games. The distraction from problems, the light-hearted playfulness, and the togetherness these games can provide equal great stress relief for the entire family. Playing games in the park provides similar benefits, but this is a great plan, too, especially for busy people.
