In addition to being an extremely popular game for entertainment purposes, Wii Fit has proven to be an effective exercise tool for children and adults. Building on the success of the Wii Sports Boxing game, Wii Fit includes Rhythm Boxing, which incorporates the techniques and appeal of the original Wii Sports Boxing with the Wii Balance Board and step exercise. This combination produces a game that has a structured format similar to a workout class and exercises your upper body, legs and cardiovascular system.
Rhythm Boxing Requirements
Playing Rhythm Boxing requires a Wii console, the Wii Fit game disc, a Wii Remote, Wii Nunchuck and Wii Balance Board. A yoga mat or other soft workout mat in front of the Wii Balance Board will make the workout more comfortable for your feet. In addition to the equipment requirements, some Wii Fit games require that players complete a certain amount of playing time before the games will even be available for playing. The Rhythm Boxing game requires 1 hour and 40 minutes of playing time, which is the same as 100 Wii Fit credits.
Basic Gameplay
You begin the game as with all other Wii Fit games, by stepping onto the Balance Board. Hold the Nunchuck in your left hand and your Wii Remote in your right hand, and keep them upright at shoulder level. Listen to the commands of the game announcer and follow them as closely as possible, sticking to the beat of the background rhythm. The game will proceed through a series of steps and punches and conclude with a free-for-all period at the end in which you are free to hit the punching bag as much as you wish.
Dodging
One of the difficult sections of this game from a performance standpoint is dodging, which is referred to in the game as blocking. The announcer will command you to "block." At this command, step backward one foot at a time, maintain your balance and stand upright on the Balance Board with both feet. Quickly achieving a stable footing on the Balance Board in time to the rhythm of the workout is critical for ensuring that the block is successful.
Performance Tips
Do not punch before the target is visible. The appearance of the target is the indicator that you should initiate your punch. When attempting a long series of commands, work to memorize the first set particularly, as the second set will always be a reverse of the first. Focus more intently on following the rhythm than the physical details of your actions, as the points are weighted more heavily for rhythm adherence than form, as in popular dance games.
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