One of the best uses for VR that is often downplayed in the popular media is using virtual reality to augment your fitness program.
Whether it is using a full-body setup or just your headset and some controllers, there are a ton of VR games that get you moving and give you a workout.
We’ve collected 10 of our favorites from 2018 here for you to check out.
Some of them successfully meld a video game with a fitness app while others, like Hot Squat, are quite the workout indeed.
10. Box VR
This game is not for the faint of heart – literally. It will give you a workout and has exercises for your chest, shoulder, and arms. Be warned: It is a real workout and you will burn some calories playing this title.
9. Audio Shield
Block and punch orbs as they come at you in this tour-de-force of sensations and aerobic exercise.
8. Beat Saber
Beat Saber is the famous rhythm game we all know and love, but it also quite the cardio workout. I’ve definitely sweat through my headset while playing on expert mode. There are even mods available for you to check your calorie burned count while slicing some boxes.
7. Knockout League
If you loved the 1980s and Mike Tyson’s Punch Out on the NES, then Knockout League has your number. Train in several modes, including Reflex Alley, Grudge Match, Speed Bag, and Focus Mitt Training, all while working up a sweat.
6. Sparc
A workout that doesn’t forget it is a game, Sparc is like virtual dodgeball except for without the bruising that comes along with getting nailed.
5. The Fastest Fist
Another boxing title that isn’t as rigorous as the others on this list, The Fastest Fist is probably something more suited to beginners and those who aren’t sure if they’re ready to get fit with VR.
4. Gorn
This gladiator-themed game has one very simple premise: Beat the heck out of everything you encounter using any and all weapons you can find. From axes to hammers or just your fists, Gorn will have you out of breath while beating your opponents out of their bodies. It’s all done with a unique Saturday morning cartoon vibe that makes its aesthetic neat and a lot of fun.
3. Sprint Vector
This colorful gameshow racing game will leave you panting after an intense workout of zooming through the courses. The game requires you to move your arms in order to accelerate through the courses. Play against AI or for that extra competitive workout, against real players.
2. The Thrill of the Fight
This is another boxing game guaranteed to get you moving and burning calories. If you can complete an entire set the game promises you could burn up to 450 calories or more.
1. Hot Squat
One of the world’s most underrated (or overrated, depending on who you ask) exercises, Hot Squat puts the squat front and center to give you a workout you can’t help but remember. The objective is to perform squats in order to make yourself fit inside of various virtual spaces which is a lot easier written than done. You’ll get a real workout in this game and your derriere might thank you for it.
