# Evaluating the Acceptability of Using Virtual Reality to Promote Physical Activity Among Latino, Latina, and Latine Adults With Cardiometabolic Risk Factors and Obesity in Underresourced Settings: Protocol for a Qualitative Focus Group Study

## TL;DR

This study explores how Latino, Latina, and Latine adults in underresourced areas feel about using virtual reality to increase physical activity and improve health.

## Contribution

The study introduces a community-informed VR protocol to assess physical activity acceptability in high-risk, underresourced Latino communities.

## Key findings

- Seven focus groups with 44 participants across three age groups were conducted to evaluate VR acceptability.
- Findings will provide insights into using VR for promoting physical activity in underserved populations.
- The study contributes to digital health equity and obesity prevention research.

## Abstract

Obesity represents a significant public health challenge in the United States, particularly among Latino, Latina, and Latine communities and those in underresourced settings. Virtual reality (VR) is a new and innovative technology that can promote physical activity and has the potential to overcome some structural barriers. However, there are few studies that explore the acceptability of using this new technology among high-risk groups in underresourced settings.

We outline a community-informed protocol for conducting focus groups with Latino, Latina, and Latine adults who have cardiometabolic risk factors and obesity residing in underresourced communities. The focus groups will assess the acceptability of a culturally aligned VR program to promote physical activity.

Using a community-engaged approach informed by community health workers and a community advisory board, we delivered an immersive VR dance experience to Latino, Latina, and Latine adult participants with cardiometabolic risk factors and obesity. Following the VR experience, we conducted semistructured focus group interviews to assess acceptability guided by the theoretical framework of acceptability. Data collection included a baseline demographic survey and focus group discussions to evaluate participant experiences and the VR program’s acceptability.

As of April 2025, we have completed 7 focus groups with 44 participants across 3 age groups: 18 to 29 years, 30 to 49 years, and 50 to 70 years. Data collection was completed in May 2025, and study findings are expected to be published in February 2026.

The fully analyzed data from this study will offer insights into leveraging VR as an innovative tool for promoting physical activity in underserved populations, contributing to the broader literature on digital health equity and obesity prevention.