VR can be a surprisingly effective — and genuinely fun — way to exercise. Here are the apps that actually work.
Does VR fitness really work?
Yes. Studies and the independent VR Health Institute have shown that active VR titles can burn calories at rates comparable to tennis or rowing. The secret is that VR makes exercise fun enough that you forget you're working out — which means you actually keep doing it.
Best guided workouts
Supernatural is the gold standard: daily coached cardio and boxing sessions set to real music in stunning locations (subscription required). Les Mills Bodycombat brings the famous gym class into VR with a one-off purchase. Both will leave you genuinely sweaty.
Best 'games that are secretly cardio'
Beat Saber, Pistol Whip, Synth Riders and Thrill of the Fight (boxing) are games first and workouts second — perfect if structured classes bore you. Thrill of the Fight in particular is brutal on the arms and shoulders.
Tips for sweaty sessions
Buy a washable silicone facial interface cover, use a fan for airflow, wipe lenses gently with a microfibre cloth, and take breaks. A counterweight strap also keeps the headset stable during fast movement.