Fitness
Explained: What is fitness gaming and how you can use your phone to stay fit – Times of India
What are fitness gaming apps
Fitness gaming apps, also known as Active Video Games (AVG) are also a form of exercise.Unlike traditional video games that are played sitting down, fitness games require physical movement from the player to control or interact with the game. This can range from simple movements like swiping and tapping to more vigorous activities like walking, jumping, or mimicking specific physical exercises. The popularisation of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) has also driven the growth of these apps.
Popular fitness gaming apps include Pokemon Go, which is an AR game that encourages walking and exploring outdoors by catching Pokémon characters in real-world locations. Meanwhile, other apps like Zombies, Run is an immersive running fitness game where players run to survive and collect supplies to help their community thrive in a post-zombie apocalypse world.
How do fitness games work on smartphones
Fitness games use smartphone’s built-in sensors and connectivity to offer an exciting workout routine Smartphones are equipped with various sensors such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, and GPS, which can track movement and location. These sensors enable fitness gaming which also includes monitoring physical activity. For example, counting steps, detecting movement speed and even analysing the user’s posture.
Some fitness gaming apps use AR to superimpose gaming elements onto the real world through the smartphone’s camera. This can make running through your neighbourhood park feel like a quest through a virtual world, where players can collect items or dodge virtual obstacles.
Many fitness gaming apps incorporate social elements where users can connect with friends, join teams, or compete against others in fitness challenges. This social connectivity not only drives competition but also creates a community of users who motivate each other.
Fitness gaming apps often offer personalised workout plans and real-time feedback based on your performance. This can help users stay motivated and improve their fitness levels effectively.
Importance of fitness gaming for smartphone users
With fitness gaming apps, smartphone users can turn exercise into a fun and engaging activity. Fitness gaming can encourage users who might be less interested in traditional forms of exercise to get moving.
Smartphone users can participate in fitness gaming anytime and anywhere. These games will integrate exercise into their daily routine without needing gym equipment or special attire.
The gaming aspect helps maintain engagement. Challenges, levels, rewards, and the possibility to break personal records keep players returning for more, just as they would with any other game.
Fitness games can be tailored to any fitness level and can be used by people of various ages Like any form of exercise, fitness gaming can also help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.