Is exercise fun? Virtual-reality boxing versus traditional cardio to improve in-task valance and post-exercise enjoyment.

Given the overwhelming literature on the beneficial effects of exercise, it is surprising that many individuals do not meet current physical activity guidelines. Among the most often cited reasons for nonadherence to exercise are lack of time and lack of enjoyment. However, recent technology has provided a new mode of exercise that could change that. PURPOSE: We plan to compare in-task valance during and enjoyment after a bout of moderate-intensity continuous exercise (MICE) and virtual-reality boxing (VRB). METHODS: Using a within-subject randomized design, the participants [N= 20, 8 females; age (M ± SD); 26.1 ± 7.2 yrs; BMI (M ± SD); 26.4 ± 5.8] completed a 5 min warm-up, 20 min of MICE and VRB workout, and a 5 min cool-down. In-task valance, heart rate, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were assessed during each condition, and enjoyment was assessed immediately after each condition. Results: The participants reported more positive in-task valence [Cohen’s d= .59] and greater post-exercise enjoyment [Cohen’s d= 1.76] during VRB relative to MICE. Further, the participants reported higher RPE [Cohen’s d= .53] and heart rates [Cohen’s d= .52] during VRB. Conclusion: Virtual-reality boxing resulted in significantly greater in-task valence and post-exercise enjoyment relative to traditional cardio. As both in-task valence and enjoyment have been linked to exercise adherence, virtual-reality exercise should be considered as a means to increase exercise adherence.