Want to start exercising in 2025 but loathe the idea of joining a gym? The Nintendo Switch has what you need to get moving without the awkwardness of public spectacle with their latest– Fitness Boxing 3.
I received a copy of this game for the purpose of our review. All opinions are my own.
Fitness Boxing 3 Review
If you have ever taken a boxing class or just hit a punching bag a few times you know what an incredible stress-relieving workout it can be. Whether you are a college student trying to get through final exams (that’s when I took my first class) or you’ve just had a long day, punching something just feels right. Of course you can’t just punch anyone or anything which is why Fitness Boxing was created in 2018. It was a fun game that combined Just Dance with punching, what’s not to love? Now, 6 years later, Nintendo has released Fitness Boxing 3, with all the things you loved about the original game with some fun new additions.
Gameplay
Once you have completed the first few days of daily workouts, you are allowed to choose a specific trainer from the six available to be your go-to. This is also the player’s opportunity to adjust how much they want to be complimented during their workouts. I know some people love all the love while others prefer their trainer speak as little as possible. Plus unlike the real gym which doesn’t reward you except with a membership you can’t escape, Fitness Boxing 3 offers you rewards for coming back day after day. There are points to be earned and trophies to obtain for completing different routines and workouts.
The main workout mode will be familiar to anyone who has played Fitness Boxing in the past. After choosing your workout of choice (or accepting the daily workout that is tailored to your time, intensity, and areas of work), you begin punching, dodging, and ducking to the beat. However, this time around there are also new modes to add some fun variations to the virtual ring. Whether you’ve had a long day at the office, your body is not used to moving quite like the game wants you too, or you have issues performing standing exercises, try Sit Fit Boxing. Like its name suggests, you can stay comfortably seated while performing modified movements. It didn’t have me breaking out into a sweat but I do like that the option is there for older family members and those with varying physical abilities.
If you’re looking for boxing without a beat, switch to Mitt Drills. Instead of waiting for an icon to pass a line before punching to the beat, you can begin throwing punches as soon as your trainer lifts their mitts. This mode spikes the heart rate more as there is less time between swings. You can punch as quickly as you want, flowing through combos like you’re Ali or Tyson. Then when the rapid punch section hits, lock in and go all out. Sure your family might think you’re just flailing around but you know you’re going for the title.
The only downside to the game for me was the soundtrack. Admittedly though, I have an eclectic music taste as my lovingly crafted playlists can attest to. Yes this game is essentially about punching to the beat but the Joy-Con motion is super forgiving and once you get the hang of the standard punches and combo timings you can listen to whatever you want to while hitting the air.
Verdict
Fitness Boxing 3 is a great addition to the lineup of fun fitness games offered by Nintendo. Whether you are a newcomer or coming back to the ring after a brief hiatus, this game will teach you the basics before ramping up the intensity to give you a full body workout. This time around, the new modes breathe fresh life into the franchise while expanding its capabilities to better suit all activity levels. And although the soundtrack isn’t exactly fire, it doesn’t take away from the sweat, sore muscles, and good time you’ll have punching and landing combos with your favorite trainer. It may even inspire you to take a real boxing class or at the very least will help relieve some 2025 stress!
Fitness Boxing 3: Your Personal Trainer is now available for the Nintendo Switch. It is rated E for everyone.
