Virtual Reality Workouts: Gimmick or Game-Changer?

Working out in your living room while scaling Everest or boxing in a neon-lit arena? Welcome to the world of virtual reality fitness—where the lines between gaming and training are officially blurred. As VR tech gets smarter (and sweatier), we’re seeing a wave of immersive workouts promising to make exercise more fun, effective, and addictive. But is it all hype, or is this the future of fitness? At Dandy, we strapped in and tested it out.

By Dandy, Apr 14 2025

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Once upon a time, a home workout meant a dodgy yoga DVD or dancing along to fitness influencers on YouTube. Fast forward to 2025, and your living room might now double as a boxing ring, a dance floor, or even a neon-lit space station — all thanks to virtual reality workouts.

But is this the future of fitness or just a flashy way to procrastinate on leg day?

Let’s get into it.

What Are VR Workouts, Actually?

Virtual reality workouts use a VR headset (like Meta Quest or HTC Vive) to immerse you in a fully interactive fitness experience. That could mean ducking and weaving through a boxing match, following choreo in a rhythm game, or gliding through scenic mountains on a virtual rowing machine.

You’re not just watching a workout. You’re inside it.

And yes — you will get sweaty.

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The Power Ring Set

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Bala Bars - Black

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Why Everyone’s Suddenly Into Them

It’s not just a techy trend for gamers. VR workouts are catching on with fitness newbies, wellness seekers, and anyone who's deeply bored of their at-home routine. Here’s why:

They’re fun. Genuinely. You forget you’re exercising because it feels like a game.

They boost motivation. When your workout involves smashing glowing targets or dodging digital obstacles, you're less likely to bail.

They can be surprisingly intense. Some VR games are legit cardio. Your heart rate won’t know what hit it.

They’re great for small spaces. You don’t need a full gym setup — just enough room to swing your arms safely.

So... Do They Work?

Short answer: Yes — if you actually use them.

Studies show that certain VR workouts can match or even exceed traditional workouts in terms of heart rate, calorie burn and overall engagement. Plus, they’re more likely to keep you consistent, because you’re not dreading them like a burpee circuit from hell.

But like any workout style, the results depend on:

How often you do it
What kind of movement you’re doing
Whether you pair it with strength, stretching and rest

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Best VR Fitness Apps to Try

If you’re ready to dip your toes (and arms, and abs) into the virtual fitness world, here are some Dandy-approved favourites:

Supernatural – Gorgeous landscapes + guided workouts + epic playlists. Like meditative HIIT.

FitXR – Think Boxercise, dance cardio and strength sessions with instructors. Fun and punchy.

Les Mills Bodycombat VR – Your favourite fitness class, now in 3D. Feel the burn, dodge the kicks.

Beat Saber – Technically a rhythm game, but it will give your arms and core a surprise workout.

Tripp – More wellness than workout, but great for breathwork, mental recovery and VR chill vibes.

Is It Worth the Investment?

If you love a gadget and struggle with workout motivation, VR might just be your golden ticket. A headset isn’t cheap, but when you compare it to a year of gym memberships, boutique classes or a pile of unused equipment... it’s not outrageous.

Plus, you can work out in your pyjamas and pretend you're on a moon base. So there’s that.

Dandy Takeaway: The Future of Fitness Is (Virtually) Here

Virtual reality workouts aren’t replacing traditional fitness. But they’re adding something fresh — a playful, immersive way to move your body that actually feels like a break, not a chore.

If the gym bores you and the sofa keeps winning, maybe it’s time to plug in, power up and sweat it out in style.