How to Stay Fit with Nintendo Wii U

Digital gaming company Nintendo is giving Wii U owners the chance to get fit for free.

Starting Nov. 1, Wii U owners who own a Wii Balance Board accessory and have access to a broadband Internet connection will be able to download a free trial version of Wii Fit U from the Nintendo eShop.

The trial software is not an abbreviated version of the game – it’s the full Wii Fit U experience, says the company.

The trial will be downloadable from the Nintendo eShop between Nov. 1, 2013, and Jan. 31, 2014, and will work for 31 days from when it is first played.

Any trial participant who buys a Fit Meter accessory and syncs it to the game will be able to continue playing Wii Fit U forever.

The Fit Meter has many of the same features of modern activity meters, and people can purchase one at select retailers and online at a suggested retail price of $19.99.

With Wii Fit U, the workout goes wherever the user goes. People can work out at home, or take the Fit Meter with them to track steps taken, elevation changes and calories burned.

One button press syncs the Fit Meter data to the in-game profile, so people get credit for their physical activity, even if they aren’t at home for a traditional Wii Fit U workout.

The game also lets people create custom routines of their favorite activities, review their progress and see what their friends are up to in online communities.

With more than 70 different activities to choose from, Wii Fit U combines fun and fitness in yoga, strength training and fitness games that get people up off the couch and moving.

For the first time, dance activities are also included. Players can try eight different dance styles, including salsa, hula and hip hop.

For more information about Wii Fit U, visit http://wiifitu.nintendo.com.