My Geek Voice

This the on-going ecomonic crises (will it ever end???) and fees for the gyms getting higher due to the crisis, more and more people seem to be heading the way of the video game for their workouts. Having just bought EA Sports Active game for the Wii, I can see why this trend is happening.  It was a fun game and that worked my body over! Good Lordy! I wasn’t expecting to work up a sweat, because I figured it was a lot like Wii Fit, which was fun, but never caused a sweat. This game was a whole different ball game! I was dripping with sweat by the time it was over! However, for dripping a sweat, I didn’t feel like I was going to die. (You know what I mean!)

The personal trainer was encouraging, but not a pain in the butt, like the ones on Wii Fit, which are placating and sometimes condescending. This trainer was the perfect balance of encouragement and challenging. The exercises were fun and challenging and I have to admit, it was the most fun that I have had working out. This is perfect for someone who cannot afford or does not want the monthly gym membership.

Now, for my question: Will video games replace personal trainers? That depends on the person. If the person is self-motivated and is somewhat in shape, but needs a boost, I think that the Wii’s EA Active is a great workout for them. This is also great for someone who is intimidated by the gym. However, if the person is either obese or in kick ass shape and is not self-motivated, this is the not the best route for them. Meeting with a personal trainer is probably the best option for them, especially if they need the accountability or custom workouts. Also, if your gym provides childcare and your children are younger and prone to bugging you while you workout, I would highly suggest hitting the gym! (That is unless, you have a highly motivated youngster that follows the workout alongside you, like my goof ball Sophia!) Both EA Active and the gym are great options and I personally use both. I swim at the local YMCA, where I work, and I will now be hitting EA Active during the day time. For me, I find that this is probably the best way to get back into my pre-pregnancy shape.

Do you think that gyms will become obsolete in the future due to video games?