3. The Kinect for Xbox 360 ($150 for sensor or $300 for Xbox 360 4GB Console/Kinect Bundle; www.xbox.com)

Why we like it: If you’re looking to lose weight, most people stick with the same handful of tried-and-true methods such as walking, running, cycling, or exercise classes. Finally, there are plenty of new fun fitness games you can try with an Xbox 360 that are terrific for burning calories—such as Your Shape: Fitness Evolved, Dance Central, The Biggest Loser: Ultimate Workout and EA SPORTS Active 2—but you need a Kinect to try any of them. This sensor sits on top of your entertainment center and tracks your body movements, so you don’t need to hold a controller (which can slip from your hands, or just be uncomfortable as you work out) or have to worry about pushing any buttons to get moving.