The effect of exercise in virtual environment on psychological well-being and motivation for recreation participation

Abstract This study examined the effects of virtual exercise participation on leisure motivation, psychological well-being, and performance outcomes. A sample of 110 university students (Xage = 21.49 ± 1.82) participated in a virtual cycling simulation over an approximate eight-week period, performing individually, in a group setting, and then as teammates with an unfamiliar partner. For each session, performance indicators—completion time, average heart rate, cadence, power output, and calorie expenditure—were recorded. The Leisure Motivation Scale and Psychological Well-Being Scale were administered before the initial ride and after the final ride. Analysis using Repeated Measure ANOVA (Analysis of variance) revealed significant differences in performance metrics across the three exercise conditions. Pairwise Comparisons with Bonferroni correction indicated specific differences between group configurations, and a Paired Sample t-test showed notable changes in leisure motivation and psychological well-being from pre- to post-test. These findings highlight the role of social context in virtual exercise performance and its impact on participants’ motivational and psychological outcomes.