A new gadget has been created called Cykill using the Arduino development platform which forces you to work out to play on your Xbox. Requiring that players maintain a certain cycling speed to be able to provide power to the Xbox console.
Stop cycling and power is cut to the console and the Cykill device will not allow you to power on your Xbox unless you are providing sufficient pedal power. Watch the demonstration video below to learn more about this new Arduino project which is sure to get you in shape.
Gyms are dreadful and a massive time commitment. Personal trainers are effective, but outrageously expensive. Serious dieting leads to a lifetime of suffering, especially in America. Routines such as “yoga” and “walking the dog” are simply pseudo fitness, and rarely improve the waistline. Gaming+Fitness is the future, undoubtably. Cykill is a friendly first step.
How Cykill Works
The Cykill device integrates seamlessly with your Xbox console, utilizing the Arduino platform to monitor and control the power supply. The core concept is simple yet effective: as long as you keep pedaling at a specified speed, your Xbox remains powered on. If you slow down or stop, the power is cut, and your gaming session is interrupted. This ingenious setup ensures that you are constantly moving, turning your gaming time into an effective workout session.
The device is designed to be user-friendly and can be attached to any stationary bike. The Arduino microcontroller is programmed to measure the speed of your pedaling and control the power relay connected to your Xbox. This setup not only encourages physical activity but also adds an extra layer of challenge to your gaming experience.
Benefits of Using Cykill
The Cykill device offers numerous benefits beyond just getting you in shape. Here are some of the key advantages:
1. Improved Physical Health: Regular cycling is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that can help improve your heart health, increase stamina, and burn calories. By integrating this activity into your gaming routine, you can achieve your fitness goals without feeling like you’re sacrificing your leisure time.
2. Enhanced Mental Well-being: Exercise is known to release endorphins, which can improve your mood and reduce stress levels. Combining gaming with physical activity can provide a balanced approach to mental well-being, making your gaming sessions more enjoyable and less sedentary.
3. Cost-Effective Fitness Solution: Traditional gym memberships and personal trainers can be expensive. The Cykill device offers a one-time investment that provides a long-term fitness solution. Plus, it eliminates the need for commuting to a gym, saving you both time and money.
4. Increased Motivation: The immediate consequence of losing power to your Xbox if you stop pedaling serves as a strong motivator to keep moving. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with maintaining a regular exercise routine.
5. Customizable Workouts: The Arduino platform allows for customization, meaning you can adjust the required cycling speed to match your fitness level. As you get fitter, you can increase the difficulty to continue challenging yourself.
If you are interested in creating your very own Cykill device to help you get in shape while you game, full instructions have been published to the Instructables website and can be accessed via the link below.
Source: AB : Instructables
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