Gaming expert Phoebe Kahn reports on the latest Gen Z craze – using video games to exercise.
Who knew that a game I used to play with my sister in our living room on the Nintendo Wii would become a go-to exercise activity for an entire generation? Just Dance has made a surprising comeback, and it’s not just a game anymore—it’s a cultural phenomenon, especially for Gen Z.
What Is Just Dance?
Just Dance is a dance-based video game created by Ubisoft that challenges players to mimic dancers on the screen. Each song in the game’s library has a unique choreographed routine, and songs are categorised by difficulty based on their movements and physical effort.
Since its debut in 2009, Just Dance has released a new edition nearly every year, with each version featuring around 40 songs by popular artists from the previous year. It’s a perfect blend of fun and fitness, offering everything from high-energy pop hits to nostalgic classics.
The TikTok Effect
Just Dance has been trending all over TikTok, with users embracing its infectious energy and simple, carefree moves. What I love the most about the game is that it’s not about nailing every step or looking picture-perfect. Instead, it’s about having fun, expressing yourself, and moving your body in a judgment-free zone.
This tech-savvy generation knows how to take an old classic and make it accessible to everyone. You don’t need fancy equipment—just a console, your phone, or even YouTube to join the fun.
Accessible for All
One of the best things about Just Dance is its inclusivity. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just looking for a low-pressure way to move, there’s something for everyone. The game offers a range of difficulty levels and styles, even seated dances, making it an option for people of all abilities. For those looking to amp things up, there’s even a “workout mode” to turn your living room into a cardio dance party. Who needs a Zumba class when you have Just Dance!
A Safe and Fun Outlet
For many, Just Dance has become a safe way to shake off those “nighttime zoomies” without leaving the house. Sometimes I get a burst of energy at 10pm and let’s be honest, as a woman I don’t feel safe to just go for a walk outside. Just Dance is a quick, fun activity that can be done safely at home, whether you’re blowing off steam after work or squeezing in some movement during a lunch break.
One standout favourite? The iconic “Rasputin” dance, which has generated millions TikTok videos. It’s a routine that many people know by heart, blending nostalgia with the irresistible urge to get up and groove.
More Than a Trend
Just Dance isn’t just a fleeting TikTok trend—it’s a piece of Gen Z culture. It taps into nostalgia while offering a fresh, modern twist that aligns with the generation’s values: inclusivity, fun, and self-expression.
So whether you’re revisiting the game you grew up with or trying it for the first time, Just Dance proves that moving your body doesn’t have to feel like a chore. All you need is a beat, a screen, and a little bit of room to move.