HIITCopter: Analysis of the Suitability of VR Exergaming for High-Intensity Interval Training

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is an effective way to improve cardiovascular health and fitness. However, it can be difficult to sustain for novices as it is difficult to find the right training intensity level, it requires a high motivation, and has an increased risk of overexertion and injury. We investigate whether a rowing-machine based VR-exergame can successfully induce a HIIT workout, reduce overexertion, and increase performance, enjoyment and motivation when compared to a standard instruction-based HIIT workout. The resulting game HIITCopter utilises adaptive personalisation of game mechanics to suit a user’s fitness level and provides immersive gameplay to disguise the inherent discomfort associated with HIIT. Our user study demonstrates that the game was able to induce a HIIT workout. We did not find significant difference in overexertion and performance compared to a standard instruction-based HIIT workout, but we did find higher motivation and enjoyment.