EA Sports Active - Review

So it's been awhile since I posted, but I *have* been running...just not lately.

I had a medical procedure recently that has forced me to take it easy on my feet, including running. So while I've been just letting myself heal and get back to where it needs to be, I still can do some low impact workouts.

So lately, I've been getting back to using the Wii. Yeah, Wii Sports is a bit on the weak side if you're already in better shape than a couch potato, but EA Sports, those fine makers of the Madden Football franchise, Sims, and a whole slew of other sports-related games, have come out with a game called EA Sports Active.

It's a program (I wouldn't really call it a "game"), that gives you a good CV workout and some minor resistance training. The EA Sports Active package comes with the game disc, a resistance band, and a leg strap that allows you to holster your Wii Remote Nunchuck.

I'm only Day 2 of the 30-day Challenge program but so far the workouts have had me do various lunges, kick-ups, running (in place), simple kickboxing, among other exercises in a 30-minute window. After the first day, I was impressed that it gave me a pretty decent workout.

So how does it compare to the Wii Fit? Well, for some of the exercises, you can take advantage of the Wii Fit Board, but it's not a necessary accessory. I would say that the Wii Fit game is good for fine-tuning your balance and the games that come with the Wii Fit Board emphasize that. EA Sports Active definitely takes it a level above Wii Fit but also in a different direction.

I think EA Sports Active addresses some of the criticisms of the Wii Fit game in that you can't really get a decent workout by training your balance. EA Sports Active does give you a better comprehensive workout by working your cardio, strength (to a limited degree with the resistance band), and your balance.

BUT...I don't think EA Sports Active can totally replace going to the gym, or actually going out and run. I would say it's a good compliment to working out and running...it may act as a substitute for going to the gym when you don't have the time or it may not be convenient. For anybody who can't afford to regularly go to the gym, or is just starting to get into shape and want to do so in the privacy of their own home, EA Sports Active is a good choice compared to the some of the other workout games for the Wii and reviews of those games.