Nintendo has unveiled a new Nintendo Switch peripheral that can be used as a fitness tool.
The announcement, which came during yesterday’s Nintendo Direct presentation, depicts two devices: a strap and a bendable hoop. By placing a Joy-Con in each device, players can seemingly use the equipment in a myriad of high and low impact physical activities, such as running, aerobics, and yoga.
The teaser trailer shows a range of families across the world sharing the device with their families and friends. In most occasions, the strap has been attached to the player’s thigh, but the hoop appears to have a range of uses, including as a free weight.
As yet there are no more details, but Nintendo promises more information is due on September 12th, 2019, at which time we may find out the name of the peripheral and the games compatible with the new tech.
Of course, this isn’t the first time Nintendo has tried to improve global fitness. Part of the Wii’s appeal was its motion controlled fitness games, including the smash-hit Wii Fit, which led to a consumer rush and stock issues when it first released in 2008.
In other Nintendo news, Nintendo UK recently teamed up with not-for-profit organisation Digital Schoolhouse (DSH) to help deliver “play-based learning and industry best practice” to school and college learners over the next academic year.
Becoming the programme’s new lead partner, Nintendo UK hopes to support an estimated 32,000 learners across a network for 55 schools and colleges “to bridge the gap between industry and education, combining fun, innovation and creativity with learning” and enable learners to learn anytime, anywhere with Nintendo’s mobile console system, Nintendo Switch.
“Nintendo UK is extremely excited to be working together with Ukie’s Digital Schoolhouse as lead partner. The Digital Schoolhouse programme uniquely combines computing, fun, creativity and innovation, all of which are synonymous and at the heart of Nintendo’s values,” said Kalpesh Tailor, head of communications at Nintendo UK. “Through this collaborative partnership we aim to reach more teachers and pupils than ever before, in order to help inspire the next generation of young minds across the UK.
“Through Digital Schoolhouse Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Team Battle with Nintendo Switch, as well as through other play-based learning initiatives, we want to be able to provide young adults with fun and unique experiences that will form positive lasting memories as well as foster the development of skillsets within students which they can take with them into their future.”