LIFE LESSONS, FITNESS, & VIRTUAL REALITY PLAY
Having Fun & Getting Some Exercise with Virtual Reality
Typically, it is not too difficult to select the game you want on Play Station Virtual Reality (PSVR) or a similar system.
This is not to say the other games systems are not “all that and a bag of chips,” it’s just there are so many more games available for the PSVR, and I rate the PSVR headset a notch above the others.
Plus, most everyone touts the merits of PSVR games because they already had the PS4 console and didn’t want to spend more on another system. They could just buy the headset and accessories to play. Another benefit of the PSVR is the large online community. You can usually find a partner to play just about any game.
However, not all games work on every system. But there are typically compatible games for the platform or system you own. But if you want an intense workout, you can find a game that will get you there.
VR & High-Intensity Training
OK, so not all VR games are set up for High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), but you could surely get one or two to the point where you get the required intensity. You can select a game that suits your intended intensity level based on the training tempo required.
Most of these games integrate health-science with gaming technology to ensure that the body and your mind are working correctly. While playing, you can track your heart rate, pulse, calories burned, etc., depending on your system.
Training Strategies for Virtual Reality
First, ensure you have enough space to train on the game you pick. Training at home may be challenging when it comes to space. But then again you should ensure that you have an adequate area where you can move around comfortably.
Creating space will also depend on the game.
See my article, Family Fitness Fun Using Virtual Reality
Secondly, ensure that you have a virtual reality head-mounted display (HMD). Though not all accessories are required in VR workouts, you do need an HMD for each player and the wireless controllers that are usually included with it.
Thirdly, get some top VR games to play that match your VR system and your intensity level.
Not all games are available for every system. If a friend tells you about a great new game, check to see if you can get it for your system.
Currently, the most popular VR systems are:
Play Station VR or (PSVR)
Oculus Quest or Oculus Rift (though these are made by the same manufacturer, not all games are interchangeable)
Because these games are so enjoyable, many players forget they are training or getting exercise. Some children are difficult to get motivated to exercise. They’d rather lay on the couch and play video games.
Well, with VR gaming, you can select games that ensure your children get enjoyment and exercise at the same time. Before they know it, their heart rate is up, and their muscles are getting a much-needed workout.
Two PSVR Games that Will Get Them There
One of the top games is BoxVR, which is an exciting cardio game that allows you to exercise both arms and legs. This game won the Best Virtual Reality Cardio Game of 2018 and includes more than 100 music soundtracks for your workout.
Here is a quick 35-second video display of BoxVR
I don’t know about you, but that really gets my heart pumping. Obviously, that is not my YouTube video, so if you like it, I would appreciate it if you like and subscribe.
Sparc PSVR & others won the Best Competitive Fitness Award from VR Fitness for 2017.
This game is the equivalent of the Discs of Tron for VR in a multi-player format. The game gives you a full-body workout as you try to dodge or deflect flying projectiles. There is a close-knit group of players online, so finding a match is not too difficult if you don’t have any friends up to your level.
VR will allow everyone the opportunity to have fun and burn some calories even while locked down due to the pandemic.
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About Me
Stephen Dalton is a retired US Army First Sergeant with a degree in journalism from the University of Maryland and a Certified US English Chicago Manual of Style Editor. He is a freelance journalist currently living in the Philippines.
You can see his portfolio here. Email [email protected]