Virtual Exercise: Cyber-cycling and more
Imagine pedaling a bicycle across different landscapes, with three friends, but in the safety of an indoor chair! That’s exactly what Camarillo Health Care District’s new “Off to the Races and More” virtual reality (VR) class offers. This introductory VR class incorporates seated cycling with virtual travelling.
"VR cycling combines cycling movements and virtual reality,” says Luis Morales, III, RN, the District’s Care Services Director. “Participants are experiencing various games in a virtual setting while getting the benefits of moving their bodies and working their cardiovascular system. Further, because it’s with three other participants, they not only enjoy low-impact cycling movements but also get to socialize and enjoy different virtual reality experiences with friends."
According to the National Institute of Health, studies show that physical activity among older adults reduces the risk of numerous diseases and chronic conditions, delays the onset of dementia and improves overall health. Participants of “Off to the Races and More” may boost brain health, increase self-esteem and strengthen their sense of holistic purpose if they participate regularly, according to the makers of the system.
VR cycling promotes motivation and brings a gamified experience to one's workout routine, which can encourage consistency and make exercise feel more enjoyable and accessible.
“Virtual Reality cycling offers a safe, engaging and adaptable workout experience that benefits both the physical and mental well-being of participants,” says Blair Barker, the District’s Program Officer. “This low-impact exercise is customizable to accommodate various fitness and mobility levels. Additionally, research has shown that it enhances mood, creates a sense of togetherness, and reduces feelings of isolation through these immersive environments and interactive experiences.”
“It was an out-of-body experience,” said participant Harriet. “I felt relaxed, and so happy and enthusiastic. After the class, I had a serotonin high (mood boost) and was so excited to sign up for every other VR experience you offer. Everybody should do this!”
The program includes hand-eye coordination tasks, physical exercise, cognitive drills and socialization. In the first half of the class, pop balloons that appear in front of you as you make your way down different trails improving your hand-eye coordination and cognitive skills through color and pattern matching tasks. In the second half of the class, an infinite canvas offers creative sketching skills of whatever sparks your imagination (and you’re still burning calories by cycling!).
“The reaction from participants to this class has been very positive. It has been fun to see their competitiveness while racing each other and playing paddleboard,” said Mariana, Health Promotion Coordinator for the District.
The District introduced “Off to the Races and More” in January 2025 as an extension of its award-winning Adventures in VR program. According to the maker of the system, one study found that use of the seated cycles, combined with the VR activities, resulted in a 48% decrease in fall worry and a 9% increase in movement speed. The social engagement element of this new program is also beneficial. Studies also show that loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher risks for health problems such as heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline in older adults, and the World Health Organization (WHO) declared loneliness a global health threat in November 2023.
To register, call 805-388-1952. Cost is $5 per class. (See Page 7 for dates and times.)
Mind and body come together as you cycle through beautiful landscapes with new friends. Pop brightly colored balloons, compete for high scores, and enjoy the scenery.
Hone your skills and develop your swing through target practice on a virtual island. Celebrate improved accuracy and watch as you climb the ranks on the leaderboard.
Move around a virtual canvas creating a masterpiece that is too fun to feel like exercise. Choose from a wide variety of brilliant colors, different size paint brushes and an array of brush strokes.
Cycling destinations
▪ Pine Valley – Traverse through a lush green forest (.30 mile)
▪ Yellow Rock – A field of boulders with a beautiful backdrop (.70 mile)
▪ Lighthouse – Take in the beauty of a lighthouse at sunset (1.30 miles)
▪ Infinite Boardwalk – Ocean views for miles – go as far as you’d like!
VR stats from our current programming
- Total number of participants since inception: Over 500 participants since 2022
- Average age: 73
Intro to VR Level stats:
2022-2023:
- 95% combined percentage of participants who “Strongly Agree” and “Agree” they enjoyed the Adventures in VR Program
- 70% of participants “Strongly Agree” they enjoyed the program
2024:
- 96% combined “Strongly Agree” and “Agree” they enjoyed the program
- 2022-2024 - 95% participants “Strongly Agree” and “Agree” they enjoyed the program:
Intermediate VR Level stats:
2022-2023
- 77% combined percentage of participants who “Strongly Agree” and “Agree” their mood was uplifted
2024:
- 53% 83/158 “Strongly Agree” their mood was uplifted
- 84% 132/158 combined percentage of participants who “Strongly Agree” and “Agree” their mood was uplifted
- 2022-2024 about 79% 382/482 participants “Strongly Agree” and “Agree” their mood was uplifted
Stats from Rendever, the maker of the equipment
After participating in VR cycling and games for just 4 weeks, older adults showed exciting improvements in mobility and balance.
Key Highlights:
- Walking speed increased by 9% after using VR, showing improved mobility.
- 48% of participants reported less concern about falling after VR exercise.
- 44% said the VR cycling program helped decrease their pain interference.
- Seniors felt motivated, accomplished, and had fun using VR to exercise.
