Exercising with virtual reality is potentially better for the working memory and positive mood than cycling alone

Although virtual reality (VR) exercise has attracted attention as a factor in exercise habituation due to its mood-enhancing effects, its impact on brain function remains unclear. This study aimed to explore how VR exercise affects working memory, a key executive function, and its underlying neural mechanisms. The study involved 23 healthy university students who engaged in exercise in a VR environment. Outcomes included cardiorespiratory and psychological assessments, as well as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Our findings indicate that a 10-min VR exercise session improved mood (vitality level) and working memory task performance (3-back task) more effectively than exercise or rest alone. Furthermore, the results confirmed that increased vitality from both exercise and VR exercise interventions was associated with improved 3-back task performance. However, specific brain regions contributing to this enhancement remain unidentified. These results highlight VR exercise as an optimal exercise program for enhancing working memory function by increasing vitality levels. These insights underscore the potential of VR as a novel exercise modality, with benefits extending beyond exercise adherence to potentially prevent dementia and depression.