Thursday, December 30, 2010

Review: Wii Active II

I got Wii Active II as a gift this Christmas (I am not a paid spokesperson by anyone) and have used it for three days. Here is what I have found out so far.
This is a pretty detailed program of many types of workouts. After asking a couple of simple questions, it asks what kind of workout your prefer. I chose rigorous, of course. It gives the player the option of a few workout schedules, including the initial 21 day jumpstart. I started with this.
The package comes with a sensor for the arm and one for the leg, as well as a band with handles to attach. Directions for the sensors are self explanatory. Attaching the handles to the band is not so explanatory and I could not attach them in a secure way. I finally got frustrated and used another band.
The workout is safe and effective. It includes tutorials for everything and constant form cues. I am not sure if a person brand new to exercise would understand the cues. If you have tried this program as a new exerciser, please let me know so we can compare notes.
If you are new to exercise and need to see the tutorial, don't stop moving to watch. If anything, practice as you watch. Skip tutorials if you have already seen them. While the program is loading to the next topic, keep a constant movement, such as running, walking, or jumping. With the circuits being so short, you could use the extra time. Stopping and starting is generally not a good idea.
I also noticed that the leg sensor actually sees about half of my actual reps in a fast-moving circuit. Just be aware of this. It does not bother me as I could use the extra reps!
The game should also advise the player to do some other exercise forms. 20 minutes a day 4 days a week will not be as substantial as it would be in conjunction with a cardio plan or other activity.

Overview:

Pros: Simple, short workouts, can be challenging,heart rate monitor, journal of progress, personalized workout, personalized calendar, easy to follow, easy to stick to.

Cons: circuits can be too short, sensor can miss reps, bands not useable.

Overall:
Thumbs up! I'm going to stick to it and see what happens next.