For decades, the stereotypical idea of a gamer has had a lot in common with the griefer from the South Park episode Make Love, Not Warcraft. In other words, being out of shape has long been part of society’s idea of what a gamer is. It doesn’t have to be this way, though. While going for a run or signing up for a gym can be intimidating, there are plenty of ways you can exercise in the comfort of your own home without breaking the bank. This article will highlight an upcoming Switch game that can help you get fit (Ring Fit Adventure) as well as some more traditional ways to get fit with exercise bikes (but ones that are actually affordable at under $200).
Ring Fit Adventure
Starting with Wii Sports and Wii Fit, Nintendo has been leading the way in fitness games for years. Their newest version of this is Ring Fit Adventure for the Nintendo Switch. Releasing on October 18th, Ring Fit Adventure is a massive RPG that will also help you get fit via the new Ring-Con, a circular accessory that one Joy-Con slides into, as well as a leg strap that the other Joy-Con slides into. From there, you defeat enemies and move through the game by performing various exercises, like jogging in place and doing squats. For people who want to play a traditional game while they get fit, Ring Fit Adventure is the perfect choice. It will cost $80, but considering every first party Nintendo game is $60 anyways that’s not too bad.
Ring Fit Adventure for Nintendo Switch
ProGear 225 Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike
If you thought exercise bikes all cost thousands of dollars because of the Peloton, let me point you to the ProGear 225. For just over $100 ($104.99 at the time of this writing), you can get a full-featured exercise bike that’s just about as good as the one at your local gym. The ProGear 225 has the following features:
- An upright design that engages your core
- 220 lbs. weight capacity
- Eight different resistance levels
- Adjustable seat
- A monitor that tracks and shows workout time, speed, calories burnt, and distance biked, as well as heart rate
It’s also the exercise bike I personally use, and I am shocked at how good (and quiet!) it is for its price, considering you can get it for just over $100 at Amazon.
ProGear 555LXT Magnetic Tension Recumbent Bike
If you prefer a recumbent bike, the Progear 555LXT is the option for you. It only costs a little more than the 225 ($159.00 at the time of this writing), but it has a few advantages over the 225 to justify this price increase. The 555LXT features the following:
- Recumbent design that supports your body more
- 250 lbs. weight capacity
- 14 different resistance levels
- An adjustable seat
- A monitor that shows everything the 225 does except for heart rate, but it also has workout goals that the 225 does not
I can’t vouch for the 555LXT myself, but based on how much I like the ProGear 225 I feel confident recommending this one for people who prefer a recumbent bike, especially since it’s just over $150 at Amazon.
Pro Tip: Get An Anti-Fatigue Mat
Regardless of what you choose, think about getting an anti-fatigue mat, such as this one from Genuine Joe. You can either work out on this mat or put your exercise bike on it, and your floor and your downstairs neighbors will thank you. This one’s just a little over $20 at Amazon.
Believe In Yourself!
No matter how impossible getting in shape might seem, don’t lose hope. Any baby steps you take to start an exercise plan are your path to your goals, whether you choose to do so through your Nintendo Switch or if you go a more traditional route with an exercise bike. Stay strong, and happy exercising!
