Get fit with virtual sports like boxing, tennis and
baseball
April 20, 2007
VIDEO gaming doesn't have to be about slouching on your couch while
pressing the up and down buttons on your controller.
With the XaviXPort console, you put on a pair of wireless boxing
gloves to box away with a virtual opponent on TV.
To play in a virtual tennis match, you strap on a lightweight,
wireless tennis racket and use your body to simulate the onscreen
action.
And there are also a baseball bat, golf putter and bowling ball for
those who are looking to play other virtual sports.
Its creators call this 'extertainment' - exercise and entertainment
at the same time.
All you need is to hook up the console to any TV.
INFRARED SENSORS
Infrared sensors from the console pick up the angle and speed of
your various sporting actions and transform them into animated
versions on the screen.
You can input information like your age, sex, height and weight
before playing.
After each sweaty round, you will see an exercise chart showing how
many calories you have burnt.
The data can be stored for you to monitor your workout
patterns.
Last year, the XaviXPort gained prominence in Hong Kong after
action star Jackie Chan gave it his stamp of approval.
In one of the game titles - Xavix Aerostep - Jackie teaches you to
dance, squat, jump and run along with him through the streets of
Hongkong, all on a wireless mat.
XaviXPort costs $159 and its game titles are priced between $109
and $179,
It is available at DG Lifestyle at VivoCity, E2Max at The Cathay
and Orchard Cineleisure, A1 Computer Station at Sim Lim Square, Big
Megastore at HarbourFront and most Best Denki outlets.