Punching up the Fun: A Comparison of Enjoyment and In-Task Valance in Virtual Reality Boxing and Treadmill Running

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 a lack of time and lack of enjoyment. However, recent technology has provided a new mode of exercise that could change an individual’s perception of exercise. Purpose: Compare in-task valance during and enjoyment after a bout of moderate-intensity continuous exercise (MICE) and virtual reality boxing (VRB). Methods: 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 MICE and VRB workout, and a 5 min cool-down. The in-task valance, heart rate, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were assessed during, and enjoyment was assessed immediately after each condition. Results: Participants reported more positive in-task valence [Cohen’s d = 0.59] and greater post-exercise enjoyment [Cohen’s d = 1.76] during VRB relative to MICE. Further, participants reported higher RPE [Cohen’s d = 0.53] and heart rates [Cohen’s d = 0.52] 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.