Efficacy of a 6-week VR exergame for older adults with essential hypertension: a randomized controlled pilot trial

• DOI: 10.1007/s10055-024-01073-1
• Publication Date: 2024-11-27T04:44:46Z
• Authors: Susan Vorwerg-Gall; Oskar Stamm; Luis Perotti; Ursula Müller-Werdan
• Keywords: Pilot trial

Abstract This study aimed to examine the initial efficacy of a virtual reality (VR) exergame for blood pressure (BP), body composition, lung function, physical working capacity, and mobility in older hypertensive adults. Furthermore, objective was explore exercise intensities that can be reached during training. designed as randomized controlled pilot trial. The group (EG) completed 6-week training using VR; conventional (CTG) performed over same time period. sample included thirty-five participants with essential hypertension ratio 2:1 EG (n = 23) CTG 12). twice week consisted strength endurance sessions alteration, which lasted from 20 30 min. Within groups, systolic diastolic BP were significantly reduced only EG. There no differences regard BP. heart rate (HR) results showed significant within between groups pre–post comparison. Overall, increase HR observed both groups. On average, able reach target intensity 40–60%. In addition, lower 5 min after than CTG. 6 weeks VR lead reaching indicate greater reduction adults hypertension. provides useful insights into potential exergaming future research.