# Gym-Simulating Video Games SymGym's Physical Video Games Combine Gaming and Strength Training By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2016-07-29 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/physical-video-game References: [gizmag](http://www.gizmag.com/symgym-game-controller-resistance-strength-training/44628/) & [holovit](https://www.holovit.com/) SymGym is a Chicago-based startup that is looking to take the idea of physical video games to a completely different level altogether by making use of stair stepper and rowing machine components as gaming components. The system is designed to be very simple to use. Its biggest advantage is the fact that it can emulate a video game controller in various gaming platforms, ensuring that the system never becomes stale and boring. The idea of video games being combined with physical exercise is not entirely new, as the likes of [Nintendo](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/anbernic-rg-g01) [Wii](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/epic-mickey-rebrushed) and Xbox Kinect have shown. However, the SymGym solution takes things as a step further by requiring players to undergo resistance-based strength training in order to improve their gaming performance, thereby allowing them to have fun through a physical video game while improving their fitness and health at the same time. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.8/10 - Popularity: 15% | Activity: 32% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Physical Video Games:** Combining video games with physical exercise to create an immersive gaming experience. - **Resistance-based Training:** Incorporating resistance-based strength training into video games to improve fitness while gaming. - **Gaming Accessories:** Using gaming platform components, such as stair steppers and rowing machines, as interactive gaming accessories. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Fitness:** Integrating video games into fitness routines to attract and engage a wider audience. - **Gaming:** Innovating gaming technology by incorporating fitness elements to offer a dynamic and immersive gaming experience. - **Healthcare:** Utilizing physical video games as a form of rehabilitation and physical therapy for patients. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Gamified Home Rowing Machines](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gamified-rowing.md) - [Game-Powered Core Training Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hero-core-trainer.md) - [Gamified Strength Training Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/virtuagym-connect.md) - [Fitness-Focused Gaming Wearables](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/quell.md) - [Immersive 3D Fitness Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fitness-game1.md) - [Interactive Home Workout Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-home-fitness-system.md) - [Exercise-Focused Gaming Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-5min-x-suika-game.md) - [Home Rowing Action Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/home-rowing-machines.md) - [Metaverse-Focused Exercise Machines](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/total-body-gym.md)