The acute hypoalgesic effects of active head-mounted display virtual reality games.

The purpose of this study was to determine: (1) whether physically active virtual reality (VR) games exert an acute hypoaglesic effect on the thigh and bicep compared to a non-active VR game and an exercise only condition matched for exercise intensity in healthy individuals, and (2) whether movement variables during gameplay are associated with the hypoalgesic effect of the games. Twenty young adults completed five separate study sessions, with each session devoted to playing one head-mounted display VR game or stationary cycling for 15 minutes. The games included Holopoint at level 2 and level 3, Hot Squat, and Relax Walk.

Exploring actual and perceived levels of physical activity intensity during virtual reality active games.

Background: Research suggests that engaging in active virtual reality (VR) video games can elicit light to moderate levels of physical activity (PA), making it a novel and fun mode of exercise. Further research is needed to understand the influence of VR on perceptions of exertion and enjoyment during PA.

Objective: The objectives of this study are (1) to compare actual and perceived exertion within and between active VR games with varying levels of difficulty and (2) to determine how playing active VR games influences PA enjoyment during gameplay.