Virtual Reality High-Intensity Interval Training is a Viable Alternative to Traditional Exercise (Preprint)

BACKGROUND This study evaluated the effectiveness of a virtual reality (VR) high-intensity interval training (HIIT) boxing protocol compared to traditional high-intensity circuit training (HICT) in improving exercise motivation, engagement, and physiological responses among thirty healthy medical students. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to evaluate how a VR exergame Move Sapiens influenced exercise motivation, engagement, and physiological responses in comparison to a traditional High-Intensity Circuit Training (HICT) model. METHODS Participants engaged in both VR HIIT, using an Oculus Quest 2 for a futuristic exoskeleton game experience, and a traditional 12-exercise HICT. Metrics included heart rate (HR), calorie expenditure, and blood lactate levels pre- and post-exercise, alongside ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and the situational motivation scale. RESULTS VR HIIT showed significantly higher mean HR (161±15 vs. 144±11 bpm, d=1.5, p<0.0001), peak HR (182±15 vs. 176±11 bpm, d=0.8, p=0.0001), calorie expenditure (236±58 vs. 196±44 kcal, d=0.9, p=0.0001), and RPE (16±2 vs. 15±2, d=0.4, p=0.03). Post-exercise lactate levels were higher in HICT (8.8±4.5 vs. 10.6±3.0 mmol/L, d=0.6, p=0.006). Intrinsic motivation and other psychological measures showed no significant differences, except for lower fatigue in HICT (d=0.5, p=0.02). CONCLUSIONS VR HIIT significantly enhances physiological parameters while maintaining intrinsic motivation, making it a viable alternative to traditional HICT. VR training offers potential for increased engagement through game design improvements. Future studies should explore the long-term engagement and therapeutic impacts of VR exercise in diverse and clinical populations.