Wii Fit

electronic fitness game

Written and fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Wii Fit, interactive electronic fitness game released in 2007 by the Nintendo Company Ltd. for their Wii gaming system.

Wii Fit consists of software along with a balance board that enables users to do an extensive series of yoga exercises. For more aggressive fitness enthusiasts, Wii Fit offers strength training and aerobics activities. In addition, casual players can engage in a series of games, such as tightrope walking, skiing, and snowboarding. Activities are documented in a virtual logbook, which helps users monitor and track their progress.

Wii Fit was a commercial success in nearly every market where it was introduced, often selling out the available inventory within days of its release. Despite its popularity, critics of the game claimed that it did not offer a serious workout regimen: game menu breaks prevent the sustained elevated heart rates necessary for improving cardiovascular health, and the ability to cheat on certain exercises can present a false impression of progress. According to the game’s Japanese designer, Miyamoto Shigeru, the Wii Fit has the potential to connect physical therapists and personal trainers with their clients over the Internet.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Michael Ray.