Intensity of a Physical Exercise Programme Executed through Immersive Virtual Reality

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Virtual Reality Technology
• Health Behavior Research

Background:

• Moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is crucial for health.
• Immersive virtual reality (IVR) offers a novel approach to promote physical activity.
• Understanding MVPA generated by IVR is essential for its application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the duration and intensity of physical activity during IVR.
• To investigate gender-based differences in physical activity intensity within IVR.
• To assess the potential of IVR as a tool for promoting healthy behaviors.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 39 university students participated in a 3-level IVR program.
• Physical activity intensity was measured using accelerometers.
• The program progressively increased in complexity across the three levels.

Main Results:

• The total MVPA achieved across all three IVR levels was 8 minutes and 53 seconds.
• The most complex level did not yield the highest MVPA.
• No statistically significant differences in MVPA were observed between male and female participants.

Conclusions:

• IVR exercise programs can effectively generate MVPA.
• Gender does not appear to be a significant factor in MVPA levels during IVR.
• Further research is warranted to fully establish IVR's contribution to physical activity.