Does exercising feel like a daunting task? Perhaps turning it into a game could help!

Video games can provide benefits for both physical fitness and mental wellness, with many individuals and corporations embracing the idea of gamifying health objectives.

A 2024 survey conducted by the Entertainment Software Association among 5,000 Americans revealed that about 76% of adults in the U.S. believe video games reduce stress, and 68% indicated they play to unwind or spend time.

For those who own smartwatches, some models, including the Apple Watch, now offer specific tracking features for “fitness gaming” workouts.

According to Peter Economou, an assistant professor of applied psychology at Rutgers University and director of behavioral health and wellness for Rutgers University Athletics, there has been an increasing trend of treating gaming as a sport. When approached wisely, “there can be some significant benefits,” he mentioned.

He advised those embarking on a new fitness path to be careful about imposing strict goals or expectations, as this can lead to disappointment.

If fitness is part of New Year’s resolutions or starting a new chapter, that mindset could be “problematic right from the beginning,” Economou noted. “It’s vital to ensure you’re committed to something that is practical and manageable.”

Besides conventional video games for consoles, various fitness-centred gaming options for mobile devices or virtual reality headsets are available.

The popularity of VR is on the rise, and from a behavioral standpoint, “it has shown promise for a range of issues like social anxiety and phobias,” Economou explained.

With VR, one’s brain might not always distinguish what is real. However, while further research is needed on how technology affects brain function, Economou remarked, “I don’t see any harm in things that could potentially enhance one’s wellbeing. Whether it’s VR, an app, or a video game, I view it positively as long as people use it mindfully and with caution.”

Here are some fitness video games you might want to try that can make your workout more enjoyable or engaging:

Beat Saber (VR)

In Beat Saber, a rhythm game in virtual reality, players slash blocks and dodge obstacles in sync with the music by swinging their arms and leaning or crouching. The game includes various tracks, with additional popular songs available for purchase. It features both solo and cooperative modes and adjusts to various skill levels.

Fitness Boxing 3 (Nintendo Switch)

In Fitness Boxing 3, which launched in December, players can engage in boxing-themed rhythm workouts. With a virtual personal trainer guiding them, they punch and move to music, taking part in cardio drills or seated activities, and can also customize their workouts.
 

Just Dance 2025 (Switch, Sony PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S)

The latest edition of this signature video game series, which is a popular party staple, needs little introduction. In Just Dance, players are tracked as they dance along with on-screen performers to hit songs, earning points for accuracy. The 2025 edition features new songs and serves as a fun way to be active, especially with friends, with varying levels of difficulty and a special workout mode.

Ring Fit Adventure (Switch)

Despite being released over five years ago, Ring Fit Adventure, along with its Ring-Con and leg strap accessories, remains an excellent option for combining gaming with fitness. Players engage in battles and explore a virtual world, using real-life movements and exercises to influence the game’s progress.

HoverFit (VR)

HoverFit is a multiplayer VR game where players race or compete in different worlds by performing movements like squats and arm swings to control their virtual hoverboard. Users can customize fitness levels to match their capabilities. Players can join as guests for free, but their results won’t be recorded.

No More Rainbows (VR)

In No More Rainbows, a virtual reality game, players take on the role of a creature whose environment has been compromised by pesky rainbow creatures. The game features platformer-like mechanics, encouraging players to run, jump, and climb through a captivating world using their hands.
 

Run Legends (mobile)

In Run Legends, regular walks or runs are turned into quests. In this interactive mobile game, players face enemies and advance through the storyline while running in real life. The game promotes interval training and can be experienced solo or cooperatively.