Introduction
Virtual reality (VR) has revolutionized fitness and sports training. Using a VR headset for sports training allows players to achieve their training goals whenever, wherever. While VR isn't intended to replace the court, field, or gym, it is an effective alternative to help new and seasoned athletes get in shape and hone their skills.
How is VR Used in Sports Games?
VR provides a realistic sports simulation giving athletes a chance to practice in a risk-free environment. The progress gained through VR sports games can easily be transferred to live action. Since athletes are not confined to the gym or sports field, they can repeatedly practice specific skills aiding muscle memory.
Since VR systems are extremely portable, athletes can use their headsets anywhere. Players can make time for practice even while traveling or during bad weather conditions. VR headsets like PICO can also mimic high-pressure scenarios helping athletes mentally prepare for real-life competitions at home.
VR can help elevate the athletes' skill levels as well as aid coaches in their efforts to foster progress and excellence. Advanced VR systems collect data providing teams with instant insights into performance metrics. This allows coaches to improve their training strategies and provide more personalized guidance to athletes.
VR sports games can also help in injury rehabilitation. Recovering athletes can choose to train through VR first before getting back in the gym. This allows them to train safely and at their own pace. Using VR, they can continue to stimulate and train their muscles, maintain fitness levels, and work on coordination and balance while minimizing the risk of re-injury.
How VR Sports Games are Changing Fitness
Fitness training is entering a new realm. VR has made fitness regimens accessible, adaptable, and effective for more than just high-level athletes. Here are some ways that VR has transformed our approach to sports and fitness.
Improved Athlete Experience through VR
According to an article published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, VR exercise improves physical fitness levels, strength, and proprioception, all vital components of a positive athletic experience (Qian et al., 2020). Remember, however, that VR sports games aren't limited to elite athletes! Recreational players enjoy stepping into the shoes of their favorite sports heroes and recreating their game-winning goals, hard-hitting home runs, or down-the-field dashes in the metaverse. Whether you are a serious athlete or training for the fun of it, you'll feel the impact of your movements and actions, leading to an authentic experience.
VR Can Be Used as a New Coaching Tool
When coaches and athletes can't be together, practice is usually a no-go. However, with VR, coaches and athletes don't need to be in the same facility for an effective practice. The data produced by VR training sessions gives coaches valuable feedback to guide their instruction, even from afar. In addition, VR allows coaches to simulate the unpredictable nature of live competition, prepping their athletes for multiple scenarios in a safe and cost-effective way.
VR Can Enhance Sports Participation
It's tough to argue the entertainment value of video games, and VR adds a new dimension to the fun. For those who dread putting on their exercise shoes and getting their daily workout in, VR fitness games might be the nudge they need to get moving. These experiences allow participants to sneak in their physical activity through gaming and contribute to improved health outcomes.
VR sports also allow gamers to engage in athletic experiences that go beyond the basics. Try your hand at rock climbing, rowing, or one of the many extreme sports available without leaving your rec room!
VR will Lead to New Exciting Sports
With the connection between gaming and sports happening in VR, we're anticipating new sports that incorporate the best of both worlds. For example, have you heard of HADO? It is an augmented reality (AR) experience that takes place in a live arena and requires skill, strategy, and seemingly endless energy. It's currently played in Singapore and Japan, but it's only a matter of time before its popularity reaches the U.S.
4 VR Sports Games for PICO 4
PICO 4 VR headsets are a state-of-the-art way to experience the best VR sports games. If you're wondering where to start, here are four games to help you get fit while in the metaverse.
Les Mills Bodycombat
If you're looking for a high-octane workout to add to your fitness routine, check out Les Mills Bodycombat on a PICO 4 VR system. This martial arts conditioning program has multiple settings and can be customized to your fitness level and goals. Don't worry if you're new to Bodycombat! This VR game features professional coaches to guide you through the movements required to maximize your workout. Plus, energetic music and unique scenery will keep you engaged as you break a sweat.
All In One Sports VR
All-In-One Sports VR combines physical activity and fun, making it an ideal choice for those who struggle to muster up the motivation to exercise. Test your skills at one of 13 games, including baseball, basketball, badminton, and volleyball. Advanced physics features combine with the PICO 4's ultra-wide field of view and cutting-edge tracking capabilities for a realistic athletic experience. With five levels that range from beginner to professional, players can decide how competitive they want to be in the metaverse.
Final Soccer
Soccer fans can immerse themselves in their favorite sport any time with Final Soccer on a PICO 4 headset. The sports mode in this VR game, also known as simulator mode, lets players progress through an impressive 150 levels to stand off against elite teams. If you're not in the mood for stiff competition, check out arcade mode for a more lighthearted experience. The best part? You only need approximately seven feet of space to take full advantage of this game!
Smash Walls Rogueball
You don't need to be a tennis pro to have a blast playing Smash Walls: Rogueball. Choose your racket and hit the ball toward the wall with all your strength. Smash the walls and add to your score! Create the perfect racquet-and-ball combination to destroy the barriers that block your view. While this game is all about fun—it's the perfect party game—it will raise your heart rate enough to reap some serious cardiovascular benefits.
Eleven Table Tennis
Experience the thrill of VR table tennis with Eleven Table Tennis. Engage in matches against global competitors or sharpen your skills by playing against the game's advanced AI. This game employs a very impressive physics system where the ball responds as it would in real life. Immerse yourself in the lifelike physics that blurs the line between virtual and reality.
Conclusion
Whether you are a coach who wants to use the benefits of technology in your practices or an average Joe who needs a little push to start an exercise program, VR sports games might be your answer. Explore the possibilities of VR fitness with a PICO headset and have fun while perfecting your game and improving your health!