Study on the Motivational and Physical Effects of Two VR Exergames

Abstract

Head-mounted displays for accessing virtual reality have in the past years begun to achieve their commercial potential. Gameplay using the provided game controls and space, often results in increased mobility due to this the games may have unintentional health benefits. In this study we compare two distinct exergames. We conducted a study with 17 participants and collected mixed data in the form of heart rate, interviews and accelerometer data, to assess the exercise benefit of these games. Virtual reality games can be played for exercise purposes. Participants were more eager to recommend others to exercise with exergames than exercise themselves using them. With a more hectic game, it was shown that their heart rate increased, and they moved a lot during the game sessions.