Intensity of a Physical Exercise Programme Executed through Immersive Virtual Reality

Abstract

Evidence suggests that moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is necessary for health benefits. Immersive virtual reality is a technology that uses images, sounds, and tactile sensations from a simulated world to encourage healthy behaviours and physical activity. The aims of this research are (1) to determine the duration and intensity of physical activity performed through immersive virtual reality; (2) to determine differences in physical activity intensity according to gender. Methods: A nonprobabilistic convenience sample composed of 39 university students of physical education pedagogy, who performed, through immersive virtual reality, a physical activity programme composed of three levels that progressively increased in complexity. Physical activity intensity was measured using accelerometers. Results: Of the three levels, the most complex was not the one that produced the most minutes of MVPA. The three levels added up to 08:53 min of MVPA. No significant differences were found when comparing them by sex. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that an exercise programme delivered through immersive virtual reality generates MVPA levels, with no major differences between sexes. Further research is needed to confirm the contribution of immersive virtual reality to physical activity.

Examining and Comparing the Energy Expenditure of Two Modes of a Virtual Reality Fitness Game (Supernatural): Indirect Calorimetry Study

“…However, this underestimation is likely due to the placement of the accelerometer (ie, waist-worn), which is unlikely to capture the full range of dynamic upper and lower body movements characteristic of a VR fitness game. Notably, several other studies have used waist-worn accelerometers within VR research [ 25 , 26 ], though these studies have examined time spent in MVPA rather than an energy expenditure outcome (eg, METs). Despite this, an underrepresentation of MVPA as captured by accelerometry still appears to be evident; Sousa et al [ 26 ] reported an average of 4.10 (SD 4.93) minutes of MVPA for a 20-minute VR fitness session (approximately 21%), while Giakoni-Ramirez and colleagues [ 25 ] reported an average of 3.57 minutes of MVPA for a 9-minute “intermediate” VR fitness session (approximately 40%).…”

“…Notably, several other studies have used waist-worn accelerometers within VR research [ 25 , 26 ], though these studies have examined time spent in MVPA rather than an energy expenditure outcome (eg, METs). Despite this, an underrepresentation of MVPA as captured by accelerometry still appears to be evident; Sousa et al [ 26 ] reported an average of 4.10 (SD 4.93) minutes of MVPA for a 20-minute VR fitness session (approximately 21%), while Giakoni-Ramirez and colleagues [ 25 ] reported an average of 3.57 minutes of MVPA for a 9-minute “intermediate” VR fitness session (approximately 40%). Hence, our findings suggest that the use of accelerometers during this form of PA be used cautiously.…”

“…The emerging popularity and novelty of VR gaming presents a further point of interest insofar as how accurate traditional PA monitoring devices are when applied to VR contexts. Traditional devices, such as waist-worn accelerometers and wrist-worn accelerometers (eg, smartwatches), demonstrate reasonable validity for capturing walking and running behaviors [ 24 ]; however, whether this extends to the more space-restricted, calisthenic-focused movements of VR gaming is unclear [ 25 , 26 ]. The inclusion of an onboard accelerometer in many consumer VR headsets is also a noteworthy activity monitor that is worth comparing to gold-standard energy expenditure measures [ 23 ].…”