5 fun video games that will also help you get fit at home

Sometimes we just need a little motivation to get up and exercise – even if it's in the comfort of our own homes

'Just Dance 2020' is an ideal game to get in a workout while still having fun.

Sometimes, working out can feel like a chore. With gyms closed due to the pandemic, and motivation waning to go out for even a simple jog or run, it can feel hard to get even a little exercise into your routine. Thankfully, there are other options for getting active, including those that don’t require you to leave your home. So, if you're looking to get in a sweat while having some fun in the comfort of your own living room, try out one of these games:

'Just Dance 2020' (PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Wii)

The video game, which comes out yearly, is good for people who love to bust a move. It tracks your movement with a smartphone or a controller and awards points based on your dance skills. It can be played solo, but is better with other players. It’s a good cardio workout and the latest iteration features hit songs from Ed Sheeran, Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish and Blackpink.

'Fitness Boxing' (Nintendo Switch)

If you enjoy boxing, this Nintendo game is for you. Jab and punch your way to fitness as you box along to the instrumental versions of popular songs, looking to match rhythm and earn points. The nice thing is that the game charts a player’s fitness age and calorie burn based on height and weight. The routine, length and intensity of a daily workout can be adjusted by the player at any time.

'Beat Saber' (Playstation 4, VR)

The virtual reality game released is a bit of a mix between Fruit Ninja and Dance Dance Revolution. Players use Joy Cons as contrasting red and blue virtual sabers. Blocks in various colours matching the sabers come at players and they must swipe through them while also matching with beats of music. There are five levels of difficulty ranging from Easy to Expert+, with each increasing level sure to have players working up a sweat.

'Zumba Burn It Up' (Nintendo Switch)

Another dance game. This one follows the popular Latin cardio class that can be found in most gyms. It's similar to Just Dance, in which players use the Joy Cons to synchronize their movements to what's on the screen. However, this features a more serious move set designed to get in a good workout, as opposed to alternatives created just for fun.

'Ring Fit Adventure' (Nintendo Switch)

Rather than playing a video game about fitness, you get to incorporate fitness while playing a video game. The game sees players take the role of a young athlete who meets a sentient Ring and they team up to take down an evil, bodybuilding dragon named Dragaux. Players attack enemies by using one of about 30 different exercises with more efficient exercises inflicting more damage. The game also comes with two accessories: The Ring-Con and a leg strap to help measure real-world action and also track in-game movements.

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