Dance Aerobics (Nintendo NES, 1989)

Designed for use with Nintendo's Power Pad, a floor mat with 12 touch-sensitive spaces, Dance Aerobics lets you get physically fit while playing your NES. You and your pals can work your way through 12 levels of aerobic conditioning and 64 separate aerobic routines. There are eight classes in which to participate: two each for introductory, beginner, intermediate and advanced.

The game is divided into several sections. In Dance Aerobics and Aerobic Studios, you must follow the onscreen instructor's movements by aerobicising on the Power Pad. You should mimic the instructor as though you were looking in a mirror.

Pad Antics is the umbrella title for the parts of this package that bring musical and Twister-like gameplay to the action. Tune Up lets you make your own music with the Power Pad while Mat Melodies has you playing along with the Mat Melody tune by moving your feet in conjunction with green dots that appear onscreen. Ditto is Twisteresque in that it has you matching the computer's green feet and hands by positioning your feet and hands on the corresponding spaces on the mat.

The instruction manual for Dance Aerobics recommends that you warm up prior to playing the game and not to play for more than one hour at a time. It also suggests that you consult with your doctor if you have physical disabilities or are pregnant, under medication or experiencing heart problems.