The Potential of Using Virtual Reality Technology in Physical Activity on the Example of Recreational Cycling

Purpose. The development of virtual reality (VR) offers new opportunities for users to carry out some forms of physical activity (PA) in a virtual environment. However, these solutions are not widely used and their potential is not fully explored by PA practitioners and promoters. The main objective of the study is to assess the potential for the use of non-immersive and immersive virtual reality (nIVR and IVR) technologies in PA by future healthy lifestyle promoters based on their cycling experiences in a virtual environment.Methods. Forty students from the Academy of Physical Education (AWF) in Katowice, Poland, including 20 females (age: 22.352.32 years) and 20 males (age: 22.952.19 years), were surveyed and completed the authors’ questionnaire in order for the potential of nIVR and IVR technologies to be assessed in PA.Findings. The respondents were positive about the potential of IVR in the context of supporting PA, as demonstrated by quantitative analysis of the collected material, with a significantly stronger declaration of willingness to use IVR and its recommendation to other users compared to nIVR technology. Furthermore, a qualitative analysis of the respondents’ open-ended statements revealed that for PA in IVR, the participants showed a broader spectrum of benefit categories than for PA in nIVR. Research limitations and conclusions. The sampling applied in the study means that the conclusions cannot be generalised to the entire population of potential VR technology users during PA.Practical implications. The highly rated potential of IVR in the context of supporting PA should provide inspiration for both PA planners and promoters of active video games (AVGs). Virtual training may become a mass phenomenon in the near future.Originality. The study regards the potential of using VR technology for PA, consisting of three components: intention to use VR in PA, perceived benefits of VR and PA, and willingness to recommend VR in PA.Type of paper. Research study.