Kinect PlayFit launches today on Xbox 360

When playing Kinect on Xbox 360, it's likely you are burning calories whether you realize it or not. Of course, the exact amount is debatable, but regardless, moving around while playing is sure better than sitting in one spot – from an exercise standpoint, not necessarily from a gaming point of view.

Back on topic, to help you keep track of the calories you burn, Microsoft has launched Kinect PlayFit on Xbox LIVE as a free download for all Xbox LIVE members in the U.S. It will be launching outside of the U.S. later this week.

Kinect PlayFit is a "new fitness dashboard that aggregates and tracks the calories you burn as you play a variety of Kinect games". Whether it be Dance Central 2, Your Shape Fitness Evovled 2012, or Kinect Star Wars, Kinect PlayFit lets you view your personal stats over time and see leaderboards to compare your progress against others on Xbox LIVE.

While playing games and getting credit for the calories burned, you will also earn Kinect PlayFit Achievements, Gamerscore, and Avatar Awards.

This may seem like a trivial addition, but for many it serves a much requested need. According to a "recent survey", nearly 75% of respondents believe that video games should include a component that encourages physical activity. 70% said that physically active video games can complement or supplement traditional exercise.

If you are in the U.S., you can download Kinect PlayFit for Xbox 360 today.