A Mixed Methods Examination of Immersive Virtual Reality Green Exercise.

There is increasing research suggesting virtual reality (VR) can enhance exercise experience, yielding additional psychophysiological benefits. Combining VR, nature and exercise may provide additional health benefits compared to indoor (control) and virtual urban exercise; thus, this thesis’ aims are: a) to examine how VR environments can influence psychophysiological outcomes of exercise b) to explore individual expectations and reactions to using VR exercise. The first study was designed to assess green (nature) and urban VR environments on psychophysiological outcomes during a controlled cycling-based exercise. Participants (n=12) cycled at an RPE of 12 for ten minutes. Participants reported improvements in positive and negative affect from pre- to post-exercise in the virtual green condition (p<0.001). Yet, compared to the virtual urban condition no significant difference was observed (p>0.05). A significant difference was observed in positive affect between the control condition (no VR) and the virtual green condition (p>0.001). Heart rate was significantly higher in the control condition compared to the urban (p=0.005) and green (p=0.02) conditions. Distance travelled (m) was significantly higher in the control condition compared to the urban (p=0.003); there was no significant difference between the green and urban; and green and control condition (p>0.05). Results revealed virtual green exercise can be beneficial to psychological outcomes but compared to urban/indoor environments, the results can vary. Little is known about participant thoughts and beliefs regarding VR, Study 2 was a qualitative study designed to assess expectations and reactions to VR exercise. Participants reported limited VR experience. VR improved enjoyment, and motivation and lowered perceived effort (despite RPE 12 instructions. Participants preferred the green over urban and indoor environments and suggested VR should be a substitute for real outdoor exercise. Overall, VR improved the exercise experience of participants. Future research should branch into clinical populations that may benefit from virtual green exercise.