Possibly the most exciting gift under my Christmas tree this year was the new Nintendo Wii Fit Plus game and balance board.  I’ve wanted to own a Wii Fit system since they were first launched, but after playing this new version, I’m happy that I waited for the Plus version’s debut.



Launched on October 4, 2009, the Wii Fit Plus promises “a revolutionary way for consumers to create their own customized workout, delivering new levels of personalization, convenience and enjoyment to at-home fitness.”  So far, game users and critics are in agreement, and sales are doing well for the new system.



The Plus version has integrated new software design and new programs to make use easier for people of any age, background or lifestyle.  To quote one Amazon.com product reviewer, “The best thing to happen to the Wii Fit was a little something called EA Sports Active… They raised the bar for what a fitness title should look like. The influence of EA Sports Active on Nintendo’s Wii Fit Plus is very apparent, and the Nintendo folks did a great job of taking Wii Fit to the next level.”



The system is truly fun to use, as my husband and I discovered only moments after setting it up.  We logged our weights, discovered our BMI (Body Mass Index) and set new fitness goals for ourselves.  We were even able to create a profile for our dog to keep an eye on her weight and health overtime!  The activities are designed like games, with the added benefit of fitness, so you almost don’t notice you’re exercising.  You can choose from Yoga, Strength Training, Aerobics, Balance exercises, or the new Training Plus menu and customize the timing of each activity.



Over 20 new games are featured on the Wii Fit Plus software, including six new activities in Yoga and Strength Training.  The Training Plus menu includes the following: Perfect 10, Island Cycling, Rhythm Kung Fu, Driving Range, Segway Circuit, Bird’s Eye Bull’s Eye, Snowball Fight, Obstacle Course, Tilt City, Rhythm Parade, Big Tob Juggling, Skateboard Arena, Table Tilt Plus, Balance Bubble Plus, Basic Run Plus.  My favorite is the Rhythm Kung Fu game, which gets you moving to the beat while performing basic arm and leg movements.



If you have a Wii Fit system already, the software is available separately for $19.99 so you won’t have to purchase a new Balance Board.  And don’t worry; converting your saved profile and information from the old system to the Plus version is quick and easy.  If you want to try the Wii Fit for the first time, the game and Balance Board can be purchased together for $99.99 or less.

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