It’s time to break the mold for video games

There’s this popular idea that video games make for lazy and unhealthy people. And while this may have been true decades ago—in the soon-to-be-forgotten era of wired controllers and massive consoles—the industry has grown so much that this really is no longer the case. The opportunity to become fit and healthy is available in video games, you simply have to choose it. 

Just Dance 2017

Available on PS3, PS4, Xbox One, Wii, Xbox 360, Wii U, Nintendo Switch and PC

While it may not exactly be a fitness game, Just Dance will still get you and your friends off the couch and on your feet. Try to follow the rhythm of the song and mirror the dance moves that you see on screen. The better you follow, the higher your points. And the higher your points, the better chances you have of winning. Make it a party and bring the game out when you have friends over. Or if you prefer to do your dancing in private, then take the solo mode out for a spin.

Wipeout Create & Crash

Available on the Wii, Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Xbox 360

For something a little more creative, go for Wipeout Create & Crash. The game lets you choose the different portions of the course in order to make your own monster obstacle run. Each segment can have varying levels of difficult, so you can control how much you really have to do. Run as quickly as you can to avoid getting hit by the different obstacles or jump up to miss the swinging hurdles. The limit is virtually nonexistent, and you’ll finally be able answer the age old question: Would I survive the Wipeout course?

Rock Band VR

Available on the Oculus Rift with Touch Controllers

The great thing about the Rock Band franchise is that it’s a lot of fun, but it forces you to move—albeit rather minimally. To up your game, choose the hard mode and opt for an instrument that requires more movement. So put down the guitar, pick up the drumsticks and rock out to your heart’s content.

Zumba Fitness: World Party

Available on the Wii, Wii U, Xbox 360, Xbox One

If you want something a little more fit-focused, then go for Zumba Fitness. The dances will have you sweating out all of your negative feelings and you’ll have a smile on your face the entire time. You’ll also have the option to learn other dances, such as salsa, Bollywood and hip-hop. And hey, if you happen to pick up some new moves along the way, then that’s just an added bonus. 

Your Shape: Fitness Evolved

Available on the Xbox 350

Sometimes, you need something that’s personally made for you. Enter Your Shape, which uses player projection technology to capture your form and shape. With this information, the game will tailor fit a routine for you. And you know you’re in good hands because the programs are in partnership with Men’s Health and Women’s Health. 

Break the stereotype and prove there’s more to video games than pushing some buttons and sitting in front of a screen. Let’s be honest—it’s about time that thinking got off its own behind.