Most people still believe that video games require little to no physical exertion. Thanks to the introduction of VR technologies and virtual reality fitness, this way of thinking is being turned on its head. Not only are VR games fun and entertaining, but they can also be a great way to get exercise. Below is everything you need to know to build your own state-of-the-art VR fitness calorie burning device.
VR headset
You can’t experience virtual reality without an HMD (Head Mounted Display), and not all headsets are created equal when it comes to VR fitness. If you only have the budget for a mobile VR device, turn to Google’s Daydream. The Daydream is perhaps the lightest, best looking, and most comfortable HMD on the market. It also comes with a handy little remote control that you can use to navigate virtual rooms.
While you can get your hands on a mobile VR device for much less than some high-end systems, there are some tradeoffs. For example, you need to buy a Daydream compatible phone like the Pixel or the Moto Z. Also, current mobile VR devices don’t offer users the 6DOF (Six Degrees of Freedom) that high-end devices do. After all, there isn’t a lot of mobile content that requires vigorous movement, but it’s always better to get off the couch and move around in some form than just sit still.
If you’re looking for a more capable device, check out the Oculus Rift or HTC VIVE. Both the Rift and VIVE have a wide range of content and come straight out of the box with two controllers and tracking sensors. Tracking technology gives users the freedom to move in any direction within the game space and use their hands and arms to interact with objects in most VR experiences.
computer
Pretty much everyone has a Mac or PC these days. Even if you have a newer laptop or desktop, your chances of successfully running the appropriate software if it isn’t VR ready are slim. If you’re not lucky enough to already own one, there are many options to choose from. The good news is that you can buy a VR-enabled computer for less than a thousand dollars. The bad news is that given the current speed at which VR software and hardware are advancing, a lower device may no longer be running newer content six to eight months later. It may be wise to spend a little more and make sure your computer will still function perfectly in a few years.
Alienware Aurora
content
There are plenty of VR games and experiences available in the Steam and Oculus stores. However, it can be difficult to find one that gets you moving enough to activate your muscles in significant ways while increasing your heart rate. The following games have been rated for their practice value and you can be sure that this will make you feel the burn. If you’d like to learn more about this or any other game, please visit our game reviews page Here.
Peripherals
If you want to improve your virtual reality fitness routine, consider adding additional hardware like a VR exercise bike, heart rate monitor, weight vest, and / or gloves. With these add-ons, you not only maximize the fitness benefits of each gaming session, but also increase the likelihood that you will be regularly active.
The VirZoom sensor transforms any bike into a VirZoom bike
various
There are a few little things that are relatively cheap compared to some of the other articles in this guide, but they are worth their weight in gold. If you weren’t born without sweat glands, then grab a headband or headscarf. These prevent sweat from penetrating the interior of the HMD and affecting the user’s field of vision. A Wrangler system is also a must if you plan on getting very active in VR. A wrangler helps hold the cable connecting the HMD to the computer above the user and virtually eliminates tripping hazards. Disinfectant wipes are a great thing and keep the foam face shield attached to the HMD fresh and clean.
Cable management accessories
By now you should be able to build your virtual reality fitness machine with relative ease. The best part is that unlike other home exercise devices that are aimed at adults, a virtual reality system can be used by the entire family. For many hours of active living room fun.
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