Many people think of exercise and picture a treadmill or elliptical machine inside a 24-hour gym or fitness facility. And, even though — as a whole — society has become much more healthy conscious in recent years, that misconception still exists.

Getting healthy doesn’t have to be boring — and it’s not just about your body, but your mind as well. Getting in better physical and mental shape is a win-win.  Today, I wanted to discuss some great examples of games which can help you in both departments.

Just Dance
You don’t have to be a Ginger Rogers or Fred Astaire to have a go on Just Dance, as it is just a great way to exercise your whole body. The aim of this Wii console game is to follow the movements on screen and try keep in time with the routine and the music. Allowing you to focus on your reactions to sharpen your mind, as well as flexing your joints and muscles, its all-round a great game.

Sudoku
Doing the Sudoku on your Nintendo DS or PSP is a great way to keep your brain active. The Bright Focus Group’ Alzheimer’s Disease Research Program undertook a study found partaking in the number based conundrum helps improve your memory, as you are using logic to complete the grid.

NFL Training Camp
For any die hard sports fans, this is the best game to keep you active. The game has special bands for users to wear, so they can track the progress they are making whilst working out. You can work out your whole body, from sprinting to throwing the ball 50 yard!

Playing Cards
As simple as it sounds, a quick game of Go Fish or Rummy is a great way to keep your mind ticking over. You have to logically think about the cards you have in your hand, what you require and what is on the table, so your brain is in full swing. Casino games such as poker and blackjack which you can learn here www.ipadcasino.co.nz are also great examples of card games for mental exercises.

Kinect Sports
Available for the Xbox 360, Kinect Sports allows you to access a whole host of sports without leaving your front room. By using the new Microsoft motion sensor, you can work up a sweat playing either on your own following the fitness tutorials or against an opposition to add some competition to the occasion.

There are so many creative ways these days to stay in shape from multiple perspectives. Technology and good old-fashioned mind games have come together to offer individuals very effective ways to stay on top of it.

How do you stay in shape both mentally and physically? Why do you think it’s important to work your brain and your mind?