When Nintendo released the Wii Gaming Console in 2007 we were introduced to video games in motion. Thumbs and fingers were no longer enough, suddenly we were swinging arms and up off the sofa. Wii Fit soon followed and exercise became fun. At least that's what they told us... and did it ever take off. Even after a full year of release the Wii Fit was flying off shelves quicker than they could be restocked. The question is - will it last or is it a passing fad?

We can at least partially answer that question by looking at sales numbers for that first year. Over 18 million were sold making putting it in the top five best video games sold, ever. Game makers are betting on the continued success as well. There are currently over two dozen games released that cater to the Wii Fit Balance Board promoting health, fitness, and fun. We will look at a few of those shortly.

The most unique aspect of the Wii Fit is it is not just a game, not just a workout video. It is a combination of both. Adding to the workout routine are elements of video gaming that have addicted us for decades. As you play you will unlock more difficult exercises and longer set times. Couple this with the ability to set goals and graph your progress, you have a clear visual when you achieve results.

When you consider the game is a sub $90 investment and all members of the family can participate, it is a great deal. A gym membership for let's say a family of five could be easily twice that per month. Convenience is a plus as you only need travel as far as your TV room.

The fact is, burn more calories than you take in and you will lose weight. Shoving the balance board under the couch won't cut it. The element of fun you are having should prevent that. If you're getting bored with the original game then hang on, because if you haven't kept up you will be shocked at the game choices available today.

If you have grown bored with the routines in the original Wii Fit or would just like to add variety then check out just a sampling of what has become available.  Listed here are just a few and they represent the broad range of new ideas that have come to this genre.  Videos should appear to right.

A very unique game that includes a video camera designed to analyze your shape and give you visual feedback on your form. With the camera monitoring your movements and displaying them on-screen you are able to be hands free. This enables you to use your own free weights or exercise ball and your Wii Fit balance board as well.

Multi-player mode is also featured so you can workout alongside a buddy.

Like 'Your Shape' above this game allows multi-player workouts. An original aspect of this game is that a controller is strapped to one leg to monitor movement while the game itself includes a resistance band. You are free to use your own to customize your level of resistance. Intense upper or lower body workout routines increase in intensity as you progress.

The use of resistance bands allow exercises such as curls and presses to be a part of your routine. This game also cooperates with the balance board.

This one is getting rave reviews. While it may not offer the most strenuous of workouts, it is a great example of the balance board becoming a standard peripheral in the video game industry. This is good because it gets us on our feet and off the couch. Any movement is better than none at all and this is a great option for indoor play and exercise.

Explore the slopes from Alaska to Japan performing tricks on the ground, in the air, or on rails.