I generally look forward to any fitness game review copies that come my way. I’m not much of a gym rat, and I also dislike running for fun. I do, however, really enjoy games. So, in my mind, the fusion of games and working out is rather stellar. I’ve tried Wii Fit and EA Sports Active in the past, to middling success. As evidence, you can check out my failed “Six Weeks of Active” feature from late 2009, when I thought it’d be a good idea to start working out during the holidays. I learned from my lesson, and I sat on EA Sports Active NFL Training Camp for a few weeks so I wouldn’t start playing it and then fail miserably as I endured the stressful and busy holiday season. I finally started using the game last week, and it  has been a good experience so far. However, there are some odd quirks that hold it back from being a truly awesome product.

The setup isn’t that much different from other EA Sports Active titles. You still create an avatar and input your height, weight, etc. The only difference is that there are some NFL-themed additions. You can select a trainer from more than 100 players (five per team), and after you earn currency, you can buy NFL-licensed products for your avatar to wear. While it’s initially fun at first to pick a player to be your trainer, all it does is add the ability for Aaron Rodgers to creepily stare at you while you exercise. Still, the NFL license is a great bonus for anyone who is a fan of the league. I mean, this game gives me the ability to virtually exercise at Lambeau Field. What more could I ask for?

The exercises aren't too much different outside of some fun football drills, such as one in which you have to time throws to receivers - requiring you to lunge - and drive down the field. You still use a resistance band, which is a lot stronger compared to the flimsy ones in earlier Active titles, to simulate using weights. The game also comes with two wireless devices that you place on your left arm and right leg that track your motion and heart rate; they are very easy to put on and fit snugly. I didn’t run into any of the problems I did with EA Sports Active’s Nunchuk-holding leg strap, which repeatedly fell down my leg when I used it. The only downside to this is that you still need to hold the Wii Remote for the majority of exercises. I was hoping these wireless devices would more or less remove the necessity of the Wii Remote, but you still have to hold onto it while performing exercises. The removal of the Nunchuk is wonderful, though, as you don’t feel like you are going to inadvertently choke yourself with the cord.

This game also adds an online component that allows you to track your progress online. It's handy, but the only major feature it adds is the ability to create and join workout groups. If you need motivation and you have other friends with the game, by all means take advantage of the online component. However, if you're just playing the game by yourself or with other members of your household, the online component doesn't seem to be worth putting much time into.

The announcer seems to be off in this game. When I’m holding stretches and have to focus on the audio cues instead of the visual ones, he’s usually two seconds ahead of the on-screen indicator. There are also other instances when he tells you to do something with your left leg, and your trainer and avatar go for their right. It’s not game-breaking, but it’s annoying.

I hope to continue using EA Sports Active NFL Training Camp and complete the 60-Day Challenge. The game has its flaws, but it seems to be a good workout tool in the same vein as past Active products. Probably the best comment I can make about this game is that my thighs and abs are sore after the first week. That must mean it is working.