On December 1st 2007, the Wii Fit launched in Japan for 8,480 yen (76.66 US). Complete
with explanation pamphlets and demonstration videos the latest device from
Nintendo appeared to be selling well at my local mall.
As part of the Wii Fit package you receive the “Balance Wii
Board” and the Wii Fit software. The Balance Wii Board measures 511mm x 316mm x
53.2mm and the actual device weighs 3.5Kg, batteries not included. The manufacturer
recommended a maximum user weight for the Wii Fit of 136kg or (299.2 pounds).
Marketed as a family fitness device, the included software
reflects this goal. The Wii Fit’s functionality revolves around tracking and
improving your weight, your BMI Index and your center of gravity. Using a graphical
interface the Wii Fit allows the user to keep track of the progress they are
making over a period of time. The progress of up to 8 individuals can be
tracked at one time and the software allows you to see the progress of your fellow
Wii Fit users.
The included software also provides a variety of training games
that revolve around 4 genres. Balance games, fat burning games, yoga games, and
body toning games. Apparently there are more than 40 of these mini games for
your enjoyment.
Fads seem to have a way of taking Japan
by storm more so than in the United
States in my opinion. Is the Wii Fit a
legitimate device that the Japanese would be glad to use for years to come for
their fitness needs? Or is it a gimmicky bathroom scale that will be forgotten
soon after the Christmas season?
Home fitness devices have a habit of sitting
unused in the closet or basement, by next year we’ll see if this is the case
for the Wii Fit.