Development and feasibility assessment of a virtual reality-based aerobic exercise program with real-time pulse rate monitoring on hemodynamic and arterial stiffness in healthy people: a pilot study

TL;DR

A VR-based aerobic exercise program with real-time pulse monitoring was tested for its feasibility and effects on heart health in healthy people.

Contribution

The study introduces a VR-based aerobic exercise program with real-time pulse monitoring and evaluates its feasibility and physiological effects.

Findings

Participants performed moderate-intensity VR exercise without adverse effects.

VR exercise showed potential to influence dyspnea scales and perceived exertion.

No significant changes in hemodynamic or arterial stiffness were observed.

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) exercises are reportedly beneficial as a physical activity tool for health promotion and rehabilitation, and can also help individuals exercise under professional supervision. We developed and investigated the potential feasibility of a VR-based aerobic exercise program using the XBOX ONE console and Kinect sensor with real-time pulse rate monitoring. The VR setting consisted of two-dimensional (2D) environments via computer, laptop, or television screens. In addition, the study investigated the potential feasibility of the VR-based exercise program on hemodynamic response and arterial stiffness in healthy participants of various ages.

Healthy participants (n = 30) aged > 18 years were enrolled in the VR exercise-based program. All participants were required to wear a polar heart rate (HR) monitor set for moderate-intensity exercise, targeting 40%–59% of their HR reserve. Hemodynamic and arterial stiffness (pulse wave velocity) were noninvasively measured. The Borg scale rate of perceived exertion (RPE) was also assessed.

Following a VR-guided exercise routine, all participants performed moderate-intensity exercise with no adverse health outcomes during or after the exercise. The effects of VR-based aerobic exercise extended beyond enhanced central hemodynamic and arterial stiffness. However, neither hemodynamic nor arterial stiffness showed significant differences before and after the VR exercise, except for a higher RPE response following the exercise program.

VR-based aerobic exercise with pulse rate monitoring is a promising physical activity tool to induce physiological changes and impact dyspnea scales and is also feasible for administration to healthy populations.

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