Wii Keeps our Boomer Brains & Bodies Active!

(adapted from) How to Use the Nintendo Wii for Exercise
By Leanne Bloms

The Nintendo Wii is one of the best video game consoles ever. The coolest thing about it is that gets you off the couch to play it, because you have to make the movements with the remote in order for them to be displayed on the screen. You become the character you are playing. So, your Nintendo Wii is an excellent exercise tool; you can get quite a workout!

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
Purchase Wii Fit for the Nintendo Wii. It has a somewhat high upfront cost but that's a one-time outlay, and it is a lot cheaper than a gym membership. Wii Fit comes with a balance board and lets you track your BMI and weight. From there you can set weight loss goals. Wii Fit is a fun game for the whole family because you can do activities such as Yoga, Skiing, and even Hula Hooping. If you are worried about another family member getting into your account to see your weight or progress, you can password protect your personal account on this game.

Step 2
Get off the couch. You are not going to burn as many calories sitting as you would if you were standing in front of the television. For instance, Wii Sports includes several sports games such as bowling and tennis. Pretend that you are at an actual bowling alley, or on the tennis courts. Make sure you are not going to hit anything or anyone but get moving. You will surely break a sweat quickly this way.

Step 3
Hold a game night at your home. If you find yourself procrastinating about getting off the couch to exercise and play video games invite others over to do it with you. This is a whole lot of fun and it keeps you motivated to reach your goals. Make some appetizers and let the party begin! You can even hold competitions at your house with the Nintendo Wii. This will motivate you even more to practice

Step 4
Exercise your brain. With games like Big Brain Academy: Wii Degree, you can get your mind thinking and exercise your brain. This is one game you may want to sit down for as you need a steady hand, but it is a lot of fun. You can compete with family members to find out who is the smartest in the house. To get a higher score you need to be smart and be able to think very quickly.

Step 5
Try for first place with Mario Kart Wii. You feel like you are actually in the seat of a race car with this game, and you can even compete in online tournaments. There are 32 different race tracks you can choose from and tons of different levels. Your arms will be sore after a couple hours of play.

Step 6
Ski down the slopes with one of Nintendo's newest games, Wii Ski. This game is compatible with the balance board that comes with Wii Fit. Your legs will definitely get a workout when you hit the slopes. This is an addicting game. (but in a good way...!)

A FEW ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ON Wii AS EXERCISE TOOL
http://us.wii.com/experience_gallery.jsp
http://www.nintendo.com/wiifit/launch/