Everything You Need to Know About VR and Fitness
Who would have thought that one day, instead of hitting the gym, we would put on a Virtual Reality (VR) headset and stay at home for a workout? This saves you time and is sustainable because you don’t have to travel to a gym.
However, your VR headset must be connected to a reliable internet service, such as Spectrum, to leverage this technology and have a proper, seamless workout. To learn about the feature-rich service, talk to Spectrum Customer Service representatives,
Anyway, we will be focusing on how you can use VR for exercise so that you can eventually make the shift as well. Make sure to read to the end for all the information you need!
Understanding What a VR Workout is
The first thing you need to do is understand the mechanics behind a VR workout function. It is a new technique to your ordinary workouts, with an added modernized touch. Some VR workouts work in the form of games, making your experience even more exciting and motivating.
If you head to the App Store or the Play Store, you will see that many apps have been developed specifically for VR workouts, making the best out of them. These apps can help you reach your fitness goals while having fun. You may also add an exciting touch by altering your surroundings to have an immersive workout.
Online VR Fitness Competitions
To amp things up, we were introduced to the beautiful concept of online VR fitness competitions. Considering how a VR headset works with the internet, you can look at fitness communities worldwide.
There are online leaderboards and tournaments where people can participate to boost motivation. This encourages people to push their limits and gain strength. Plus, it also allows you to break your records, giving you a sense of achievement. So, if you want that motivation, too, you should participate in an online VR fitness competition.
Using VR to Lose Weight
Primarily, when people work out, they aim to lose weight, which makes sense. You would be glad to know you can also use VR to lose weight effectively. This can be done through VR games, which help you lose weight and have fun along the way.
While playing VR games, you burn many calories since a lot of movement is involved. This has been studied at the Virtual Reality Institute of Health and Exercise, founded by Aaron Stanton. The burning of calories results in a significant loss of weight.
So, if you are looking for a fun way to lose weight and are tired of all those monotonous exercises, you should try some interesting VR games.
Can a VR Game Help with Cardio?
Cardio is an essential part of staying fit since it not only helps in developing your muscles but also helps in increasing your stamina as well. Using a VR headset is a great way to work in some cardio, too, since the games require you to move at all times, which induces heavy breathing.
With time, you will see that your breathing improves, and it will better affect your heart health. Just try to indulge yourself in games that require you to move as much as possible. But if you want a fun touch to it, you can always try the Batman Arkham VR game, where you roam the city like Batman, fighting crime!
Some VR Games That You Can Play
Knowing which games are worth your time before diving into virtual reality (VR) is crucial. The VR landscape offers various genres, from intense workouts to adrenaline-pumping action and simulation games. Preparing yourself by downloading some of the most popular and entertaining VR titles can help ensure that you’re ready for an unforgettable experience.
Here are some of the best VR games that we recommend you try:
1. FitXR
If you want to combine fitness with fun, FitXR is the perfect choice. This game transforms your workout routine into an engaging VR experience, making fitness more accessible and enjoyable. FitXR offers a wide range of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workouts, including cardio, dance, and boxing sessions. Each workout is designed to help you meet your fitness goals while keeping you motivated with real-time feedback.
Why Try It?
- Fitness meets fun: Whether you’re into boxing or just looking for a high-energy workout, FitXR makes exercising enjoyable.
- Variety of classes: It includes dance routines, boxing sessions, and HIIT, so there’s something for everyone.
- Real-time coaching: Virtual trainers will guide you through each workout to help improve your form and technique.
- Multiplayer mode: You can even train with friends in multiplayer sessions, adding a social element to your workouts.
2. Beat Saber
One of the most popular and widely acclaimed VR games, Beat Saber, is a rhythm-based game that blends music with lightsaber action. The objective is simple: slice the blocks coming your way in sync with the beat of the music. It’s visually stunning and highly addictive, with tracks ranging from EDM to pop music.
Why Try It?
- Immersive gameplay: It’s like being in a Star Wars universe, wielding a lightsaber to slash obstacles to the rhythm of your favourite tunes.
- Improves reflexes: The fast-paced action helps sharpen your reaction times by matching your movements with the beat.
- Customizable music tracks: You can add custom songs to the game, giving you endless replayability.
- Fun and fitness: While it doesn’t replace a full workout, Beat Saber can still help improve coordination and burn some calories while having a blast.
3. Thrill of the Fight
If you’re a boxing fan but want to avoid physical bruises, Thrill of the Fight offers a realistic boxing simulation in a safe, virtual environment. This VR game lets you enter the ring and face off against virtual opponents, testing your endurance, strategy, and boxing skills. Unlike arcade-style boxing games, Thrill of the Fight focuses more on realism—expect to break a sweat!
Why Try It?
- Realistic boxing simulation: The game offers a highly authentic boxing experience with realistic mechanics and feedback.
- Great workout: Boxing in VR can be surprisingly tiring, making this game a great way to stay fit while having fun.
- Immersive training experience: You’ll feel like you’re in a boxing match, complete with sparring sessions, punching bags, and ringside coaching.
- Progress tracking: The game allows you to monitor your progress, helping you improve your speed, power, and stamina over time.
4. Other Noteworthy Mentions
While these are some standout VR games, many other incredible options exist across different genres. For instance:
- Superhot VR offers a unique slow-motion action puzzle experience.
- Half-Life: Alyx delivers a gripping sci-fi narrative in a fully immersive VR environment.
- The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners combines survival horror with gripping storylines, providing a thrilling experience for fans of the genre.
So, the next time you want an exciting touch to your workout, just put on a VR headset, and you are ready!
