Categories / Digital & at-home
VR Fitness
Beat Saber and similar headset games.
How to start
Try a beginner VR boxing, rhythm or sports game for 10 to 20 minutes with a clear space and a well-fitted headset.
How to progress
Increase play time and game difficulty.
What the evidence says
Evidence: limited
We found no trials of this particular activity. Research on exergames for older adults suggests they rarely beat conventional training, and that sustained engagement is a challenge, according to a 2026 commentary that we have not independently assessed.
Take care: Take breaks if you feel motion sickness. Clear a play area, and be careful with balance.
Sources
12-week starter plan
Short sessions, a few times a week.
Tick each week as you finish it; your ticks are saved on this device only. Repeat a week if it felt hard. Weeks 4, 8 and 12 hold steady so you can settle. This is a general plan, not medical advice.
Add reminders to your calendar
Pick your days and time. You will download a calendar file that adds 12 weeks of reminders to Google, Apple or Outlook calendar.
Calories and weekly minutes
Enter your details for a rough estimate. Based on about 5.5 METs (Typical effort for this activity (estimated)). Real figures vary by 20% or more between people.
Tips and common mistakes
Tips
- Clear a play area.
- Take breaks.
- Fit the headset well.
Common mistakes
- Playing too long.
- Ignoring nausea.
- Playing near furniture.
Kit and cost
High Approximate UK prices.
- A VR headset (about £250 to £500)
- Clear play space
- Games (about £10 to £30)
Frequently asked questions
Is VR fitness a good workout?
It can be, depending on the game.
Does it cause motion sickness?
Some people feel it. Take breaks.
Is it safe?
Clear your space.
Good for: Fun & social Heart & fitness
Compare with similar options
| VR Fitness | Virtual Races and Challenges | Home Exercise Videos | Fitness Apps | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical session | 30 min × 3/wk | 30 min × 3/wk | 30 min × 3/wk | 30 min × 3/wk |
| Effort | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ |
| Cost | Moderate cost | Low cost | Free | Low cost |
| Equipment | Specialist kit | Basic kit | No equipment | Basic kit |
| Impact | Low impact | Medium impact | Low impact | Low impact |
| Fitness needed | Any level | Any level | Any level | Any level |
| Evidence | limited | limited | limited | limited |