Virtual reality (VR) technology is becoming popular as a fitness option as more companies develop games that incorporate physical activity. People may focus so intently when playing that they do not realize how much they’ve been moving.
VR fitness games use a headset to immerse yourself in a virtual environment and control your character. This requires physical movements, like jumping to dodge laser beams or swinging your arms during combat.
While some games are designed purely for fun, others focus on wellness. The question is, do they work as effective workouts? Many studies agree that they can be as intense as other options. A 2022 study found that participants often underestimate how much energy they are exerting when playing.
For instance, the exertion level when playing Fruit Ninja VR is considered light intensity, but players rated it as very light. This suggests that people are so immersed in the game and focused on winning to reach the next level that they forget they’re actively burning calories.
Moreover, VR fitness games are found to be effective among older adults. A 2023 meta-analysis found them more effective than traditional routines at improving balance and preventing falls. About 20-45 minutes of gameplay at least three times a week for five to eight weeks is especially beneficial for high-risk elderly in nursing homes or hospitals.
VR games are also excellent alternatives for people who find gyms unapproachable. According to Leanne Pedante, the head of fitness at VR app Supernatural, VR workouts let you exercise without worrying about people judging you.
“When you go to a fitness space you are surrounded by other bodies, and you’re surrounded by mirrors,” she said. By contrast, VR workouts “invite [people] in as they are, in a way that other fitness modalities can’t.”
Moreover, it allows you to play with close friends or family in the comfort of your home. It transforms exercising from a chore into something enjoyable and lets you spend more quality time with your loved ones. Exercising with a group can lower your stress levels by 26% and significantly improve your quality of life compared to working out alone. It promotes holistic well-being by enhancing physical health, mental wellness and social connections.
Are you ready to give VR fitness games a try? Some notable titles to consider include:
- FitXR: It’s an immersive virtual fitness game offering high-intensity interval training (HIIT), boxing and dance classes. FitXR has a multiplayer feature that lets up to seven members play together.
- Litesport VR: Formerly known as Liteboxer, this VR game transforms your space into a gym with a trainer. Break a sweat with dumbbell-based, total-body boot camp or boxing workouts.
- Beat Saber: This game was one of the bestselling Steam games of 2018. The goal is to slash the music blocks as they fly toward you using a pair of laser sabers. Enjoy heart-pumping tracks from Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish and Linkin Park.
- Holofit: Explore virtual worlds with your friends or alone through Holofit. Play it with your bike, rower or elliptical trainer, or try it for equipment-free boxing or skiing exercises.
These games are worth trying, regardless of your fitness level and age. If you’re hesitant about buying a VR headset, consider borrowing from a friend to experience it firsthand. However, for those ready to dive in, it’s a worthwhile investment that could enhance your wellness journey.