I agree on the “real sports are more fun” part. The Wii originally came with a sports package which has bowling, tennis, ping-pong, golf, and a few others. I won’t play that because it takes me all of 5 minutes to get anxious and want to go play the games for real. It just bugs me. And honestly, the kids rarely play that set anymore. They’re more into the quest/arcade stuff right now.

The disagree part is about cost. It all depends on your definition of “real” sports of course. For my boys to play football I had to pay a fee to join the team/cover equipment, another fee for the sports physical, more money for shoes, and then there’s the gas money driving to practices and games. I also expect to have to buy shirts and extra mouth guards along the way, so the costs haven’t ended.

Even before gas money, I’ve spent about $90 PER child to participate in 3 months of football. The Wii Fit was $90 and I can use it as long as it’s functional. Certainly it’s going to last longer than the football season.

Assuming that by real sports you mean informal events that don’t have fees to join, there are still equipment and facility costs. Even a game of bowling costs a few bucks each time and that adds up.

An adult softball team I was on once through church meant that I had to go buy a glove and practice ball, the team hat and so on. Had I gotten serious about playing, there were shoes and gloves to buy, a practice bat, and I could have gone and rented time at a batting cage to improve my skills. There are costs everywhere.

The Wii Fit games do work me out, and it’s cheaper than a membership to a gym somewhere. And yes of course it would be free if I just went for a walk, but the time I usually have to exercise is very late at night, and the severe winters along with a few health issues are prohibitive for outdoor exercise for several months a year.

I’m proud to say that I’ve lost 20 pounds, many of which were due to using the Wii Fit. For me, it helps with accountability and convenience. And of course I still stand by the point that playing games on it together with the boys is a great family builder.

Is it for everyone? No, of course not. There’s no one family that will find themselves benefiting from every single recommendation I make. We are all unique. That’s one feature of life on this planet that I love.

Hey I’m really glad you stopped by and hope you do again. Also if you wanted to give opposing examples, go for it! I love a (friendly) debate.