Immersive Workout
Environment matters. When you're in an environment that encourages you to work out, you're more likely to do so.
With the BoxVR, you're essentially transported into such an environment albeit in a virtual world but it still makes starting a workout easy. All you have to do is turn on the VR headset, put it on and you're ready for a workout.
There are boxing games out there that does not require a VR headset but being in a virtual world makes it a much more immersive experience. It can help you lose weight (if that's what you're looking for) without feeling like a drag.
Boxing is already one of the best workouts for improving overall fitness. It's also a lot of fun.
BoxVR takes the fun in boxing up a notch. It's like playing Guitar Hero but instead of using your fingers to hit the notes, you're using your fist to hit virtual targets in sync to the music. It has also been described as a mix between power punching machine, a boxercise class, and an arcade shooter.
It's not just about hitting a virtual target though. You also need to block and dodge.
Researchers at the San Francisco State University found through testing that the BoxVR can burn 15 or more calories per minute. To put that in perspective, running burns between 280 and 520 calories in 30 minutes depending on weight and speed. That's about 9 to 17 calories per minute.
Working out with a virtual headset
BoxVR is available on the PSVR, Oculus Quest and PC.
When you're working out with a virtual reality headset on, it can get quite hot and you'll be sweating quite a bit.
To protect your expensive VR headset and to keep it clean, you can use a VR headset cover like the VRcomfy Sweatband for PSVR.
For other VR headsets incluing the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, Oculus Go, Samsung Gear VR, Google Daydream View, Acer/HP/Lenovo/Samsung/Asus/Dell Windows Mixed Reality VR, and even mobile phone VR headsets like the BoboVR, you can use the VRcomfy Mask.
There's also the Lichifit for Oculus Quest, which is a silicone, sweat-proof cover. As an alternative, also check out VR Cover.
If you don't have a VR headset, we recommend the Oculus Quest because it's wireless and doesn't require a PC.
Pros
- Fun
- Good workout
- DLCs available
- Proven to be a good calorie burner
- Great curated workout routines
- Dodging makes it a good workout for your lower body as well
Cons
- There are reports of crashes and tracking problems
- Can only add custom songs on PC version
- Custom music cannot be sync to the game
- Does not train the user on proper boxing techniques
- No breaks built into the sessions
- No specific feedback on non-perfect hits
Conclusion:
The BoxVR is one of the best softwares for working out in VR. It can help you burn as much calories (if not more) as running. It's also a lot of fun and a good alternative for people who don't like working out.
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