Fitness expert plans to sue Nintendo over Wii Fit
Michael Torchia claims the game isn't actually a fitness tool, and that it could hurt you.
If you are using a Wii Fit as part of your daily fitness routine then self-proclaimed "fitness expert" Michael Torchia is concerned for your health, so much in fact that he claims to be filing a class action lawsuit against Nintendo.
According to Torchia, the Wii Fit is not actually a fitness tool. While the device has convinced the masses it will help them "be less fat", Torchia claims it will do nothing of the sort and he thinks using the device discourages people from doing traditional exercise. He also claims the Fit is dangerous because it doesn't have you stretch or warm up enough before you start doing exercises, theoretically giving you the opportunity to strain or hurt yourself.
Despite his claims, there have been plenty for people who have claimed to have shaped up using the Fit. It's also important to note that Torchia is set to launch a new AM radio show called "Shape Up, America" soon, so he could just be trying drum up a little business for himself.
As a result of the lawsuit (assuming it's actually filed), the Wii Fit could be removed from store shelves until it's outfitted with a warning label — we wish him luck in finding any on store shelves to begin with.
This story around the web:
- Trusted sources:
Fitness 'expert' prepares class-action… [Joystiq]
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Fitness guru prepares to launch Wii Fit… [engadget.com]
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What They Play - Today - Fitness expert… [whattheyplay.com]
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Comments (4)
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Rachel Cericola
(5:32 PM on Fri Feb 13, 2009)
I don't think the Wii Fit will ever replace the gym (or other forms of exercise), but it does make me sweat. Hey -- at least people are moving. Just another jerks that feels he needs to speak for the masses via a lame lawsuit.
Kat (6:25 AM on Wed Feb 18, 2009)
lol he is prob just upset cos he prob lost clients 2 the wii fit n it does tell u 2 warm it just dosent make u, its up 2 u
Anonymous (12:50 PM on Mon Mar 2, 2009)
Even though you say it could cause harm, get somebody hurt, the game does warn you. If you read the instructions and what it says on the screen. It says be careful and all. Whether you are or not, that is your own choice.
Anonymous (12:48 PM on Mon Mar 2, 2009)
i think does give you exercise, yet even though it does you still need to get your daily activitical exercise. Wii Fit is not something to obsess about, but it is a way of someone to shape up. for me i like it, it helps me work out, it does use muscles to do things, but like the fitness expert says: It does not and should not replace the gym or just regular activities. You can walk and get fit, run, skip jump. There are many ways. Wii fit is just there to help.