The Use of Virtual Reality to Alter Physical Activity by Targeting the Built Environment

Current built environmental VR research examining physical activity overwhelmingly targets walking and cycling. Despite spanning few types of PA, we observe diverse VR methodologies and patterns of applications within research areas. In this review, we explore how capabilities of current VR technology, specifically simulation development and travel, have shaped research questions, validity, and generalizability. We identify future innovations that may address these limitations. Finally, we encourage future research applying this powerful research tool to investigations of built environmental factors promoting types of physical activity apart from walking and cycling.