How do virtual exercise technology and social presence influence motivation to exercise?

Abstract

Introduction Virtual technology offers a promising tool for encouraging engagement in exercise, as it can provide the user with enhanced visual stimuli and accessible metrics; however, the specific features within that technology that contribute to motivation and participation require further investigation. This study examined how different visual displays and the presence of a second rider influenced motivation to exercise using virtual technology. Methods Twenty-four young adults completed a 3-km cycling course on the same virtual track under three counterbalanced conditions including (a) a metrics-only ride, where a screen in front of the rider displayed only standard performance variables (e.g., power, cadence), (b) a solo-virtual ride, which was identical to the previous condition, but with the addition of the participant being depicted on the screen as an avatar amongst virtual scenery, and (c) a paired-virtual ride, that contained the same elements as the previous two conditions, but with the addition of a second rider represented on the screen as an avatar. Results The quantitative results, which included performance-related variables (cadence, power, speed, and heart rate), measures of intrinsic motivation, and ratings of perceived exertion, revealed significantly higher values for the paired-virtual condition compared to both the metrics-only and the solo-virtual conditions. Differences between the metrics-only and the solo-virtual conditions were isolated to interest-enjoyment and effort-importance. Brief interviews with participants indicated that the paired-virtual condition produced heightened levels of enjoyment and competitive drive which motivated participants to exert more effort. The solo-virtual condition was reported to be relaxing, but it was also reported as the least engaging. The metrics-only condition provoked negative emotions due to the absence of distractions and a heightened focus on internal cues. Discussion The results highlight the psychological mechanisms that influence motivation and engagement when using virtual exercise technology.