Join our Telegram channel to learn more!
Nintendo is known for breaking the mold with video games and using them to get people moving. Whether it’s Wii Fit or Pokémon Go, you can count on Nintendo to get you off your couch! The same is true for Nintendo’s latest console, Nintendo Switch.
We’ve gone ahead and put together a list of 11 fitness games for the Nintendo Switch to help you work out, get fit and have fun at the same time.
Fitness Games To Help You Work Out
Wrapping Up
Note
Prices shown in this article were based on the time of writing. To view current prices, click on the various product links.
Ring Fit Adventure is, without a doubt, our favorite fitness game for Nintendo Switch. It gives you a real workout whilst distracting you with a gorgeous digital world.
As you play, you’ll battle monsters using real-world exercise to launch attacks. The main boss is an evil bodybuilding dragon, Dragaux. You can jog in place to run, flap through the sky, and paddleboard as you explore the gorgeous game world. There are also mini-games such as Squat Goals, Core Crushing, and more.
Overall, this game is fun and has helped hundreds of users burn calories.
“This game is very good. So good in fact, that the amount of fun I have while playing is the greatest flaw of it.”
Rating: 10/10 from Jaeger42 on Metacritic
“My arms and shoulders FEEL like they had a good workout. And the crazy bit is… I can’t wait to do it again!!”
Rating: 5/5 from Lauren Landau on Amazon
Jump Rope Challenge is a free game on the Switch eShop. It was built to help get people moving while being stuck at home due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Initially, it was meant to be a time-limited release, however, it has been extended indefinitely.
The game is simple and fun with a cute bunny as your avatar. The Joy-Cons act as the handles of your jump rope to get you hopping. You can set targets, track your workouts and more. You can even play with a friend. If imagining a jump rope isn’t enough for you, you can grab a switch jump rope to play.
“… it is just a funny little game on the shop to get you moving… 10/10 and definitely should win game of the year.”
Rating: 10/10 from Nilla on Metacritic
Zumba is a known way to burn those calories and have a great time. This game for the Nintendo Switch is no exception. You can have a Zumba class right in your home, alone, or with your friends in Fitness Party mode.
Dance along to chart-topping hits, burn calories, and have a great time! Honestly, who doesn’t feel better after dancing? There are over 30-songs for you to choose from, live-action visuals, and great instructors. There are over 30 classes to choose from, with workouts ranging from 15-60 minutes. Pick one that suits your fitness level, set your goals, and smash them to the sound of music.
“Disclaimer: I have taken zumba classes in real life for 7+ years now. I love this game! I was looking for something I could do at home to get in a little extra exercise and this was everything I was looking for.”
Rating: 5/5 from Hanna Bork on Amazon
“As long as you’re ok with kind of flailing around until you learn the moves, I’d say give it a try.”
Rating: 4/5 from Amanda on Amazon
Yoga is a great way to not only relax but also build your strength, flexibility and improve your posture. The Yoga Master game for Nintendo Switch is a great way to get all the benefits of a traditional yoga class.
With an array of lessons and programs, Yoga Master features over 150 poses to help you improve your fitness and mental wellbeing. Follow the exercises with your Joy-Con as you stretch and breathe away all the stress. Your ears will be filled with Yoga Master’s beautiful original soundtrack and your mind will be transported to your happy place. Namaste!
“For $25, it’s really a decent way to get your yoga routine going (or keeping up with one during a mandated stay-at-home order). I like the customization of the practices and the variety. There were a lot of poses I hadn’t seen before so that was definitely cool…”
Rating: 7/10 from Dasruets on Metacritic
Fitness Boxing 2: Rhythm & Exercise is a sequel to Fitness Boxing. It’s fun and engaging like the original and allows you to have a blast while working up a sweat. You can choose from 9 different trainers, each with their personality and flair.
With Fitness Boxing 2, you can customize your workouts – ranging from light to heavy, depending on your fitness level. Complete achievements and earn in-game rewards (after all, a smaller waist doesn’t have to be the only reward.) With great music and fun workouts, Fitness Boxing 2 is sure to get you feeling the rhythm and the burn.
Try out the free demo now!
“I’ve burned 540kal on my very first 30 minutes session on normal mode. (Yes there’s even a hard mode) It was intense to say the least. My arms and, legs felt was sore while feeling like jelly after I was done.”
Rating: 5/5 from XoXSugarSkullXoX on Amazon
“I really like it. It actually makes me want to workout. I started out soft with 18 minute workouts. And I was pretty sore at first. Now 7 days in and I love it.”
Rating: 5/5 from Stephanie on Amazon
Just Dance 2021 is the latest installment in the Just Dance franchise. A game that’s known for being fun at parties, it’s a great way to get up and get moving. Dance along to the latest chart-topping hits and learn a few new dance moves to show off to your friends.
You can play with up to 6 players, and you don’t even need extra Joy-Cons. You can use the Just Dance Controller app to track your movement. If you want to get the most of Just Dance though, you need to subscribe to Just Dance Unlimited, a streaming service for the game, though you do get 1 month free with every purchase.
“I am a former Zumba and cardio dance instructor and have to admit this can also be a great workout. I already went through 40 songs of Just Dance 2021 this morning (game just arrived yesterday), and it was a blast.”
Rating: 5/5 from sola-moczy on Amazon
“All in all I think JD 2021 is a solid entry in the series, embodying the fun and whimsy of the earlier games but with a modern polish that doesn’t compromise the gameplay itself.”
Rating: 4/5 from Braden Pickering on Amazon
Whether it’s a quick draw, cow milking competition (I hope the digital cows agreed to this), or Samurai duel, 1-2-switch is a fun game to play with you or a buddy. The game has multiple mini-games or challenges that make use of the Joy-Cons to register your movement.
The interesting thing is you don’t focus on the screen, but rather on your opponent as you play. That makes it even more engaging and fun. You can play together at home or when you have company over, as they watch you both face off and prove who is superior.
Whilst it’s not a traditional fitness game per se, 1-2-Switch is definitely a movement game to have in your catalog.
“We love this! My grandkids and I can play. It is such fun and if you want to be popular, buy it!!!! We love having our grandkids with us and doing this is (heart-shaped eyes) for us.”
Rating: 4/5 from M. Blanton on Amazon
Have fun in the sun while indoors. And no, I’m not suggesting you DIY a skylight in your living room. I’m suggesting you pick up Sports Party for Nintendo Switch. It won’t have you sweating like Ring Fit Adventure, but it’s a game with easy controls that’s fun for everyone.
Up to 4 people can play, together you guys can go jet skiing, play golf, basketball, and more. Use your Joy-Con to register your movements and have a fun family night out while you’re in. Sports Party is the type of game that gets everyone going, especially the little ones.
“…Excellent. The sports party game allows you to either use your joy con for motion controls like the wii remote for most game modes or use a joy con as a simple video game controller.”
Rating: 5/5 stars, Sebastian on Amazon
Mario and Sonic have had a rivalry for the ages. You can pick and side and win in the Mario & Sonic and the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 game. With over 30 events based on the real Olympics, you can feel like you’re right there, competing and getting the gold.
Play by yourself or with your friends and win! You can play with up to 8 players and have a blast. There’s also a dope story mode that sends you back to 1964 where you can compete in retro-style games. If you’re still on the fence, check out the free demo and see how you like it.
“Really good family game. Lots of different sports to choose from. I must warn you, it’s addictive and there’s a damaging side effect of the inability to use your dominant arm after a weekend of challenging all the family!”
Rating: 5/5 from Acon on Amazon
Mario is Nintendo’s poster boy, and he and his pals shine in Mario Tennis Aces. If you’re a tennis fan, a Mario fan, or both, then you’d love this game. You can play by yourself or with friends (maximum four players) in a game that’ll rock the Mushroom Kingdom.
Play as Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, or any of the other iconic characters from the Mario universe. With volleys, swings, smash shots, and more, you’re sure to work up a sweat as you rise to the top!
“It’s incredibly fun to play with friends and has a substantial story mode as well. Check this game out, it might surprise you with how fun it is.”
Rating: 5/5 from chickfred on Amazon
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to have ridiculously long arms? Think Ballas from Warframe. If you have, or even if you haven’t, then you’d like ARMS.
While it’s not a dedicated fitness game, ARMS is still a great way to get your arms moving and work up a sweat. You use the motion-controlled-fisticuffs to control your characters with their super extendable arms. Engage in fierce battles with unique abilities on different stages.
Play alone or with friends (maximum four players) in this unique fighting game. Try out the free demo now to see how you like it.
“So far, my kids love this. They yell and giggle in glee as they fight each other, AI, or online opponents in a non-lethal, well designed but not humorless arena. That was the whole point. Until further notice (and on behalf of my progeny), I love this!”
Rating: 5/5 from TD on Amazon
There you have it, 11 great games to you moving. Ring Fit Adventure is a personal fave because of the design, story mode, and how it really gets you going. All the others are great too, especially if you like moving with company.
We’ve all been stuck inside due to the pandemic. That’s why fitness games like these aren’t only a great way to get moving, they also help us play together too.
Lastly – if you’re on here because you’re looking to make some positive changes to your lifestyle – feel free to check the rest of our articles on wellbeing.
We’ve got tips on working out, standing desks, sleeping better, and finding motivation!
Orane Ennis is a writer with a passion for tech and how it will change the landscape of business. He’s most excited to see how augmented reality will blend the real and digital world in the years to come.
