Effects of VR and MR Exergaming on Mood and Executive Function During Workplace Microbreaks

The Effects of Virtual and Mixed Reality Exergaming on Mood and Executive Functioning During Micro Breaks at Work: A Randomized Crossover Trial

This study aims to evaluate the effects of virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) exergaming interventions during workplace microbreaks on mood and executive functions. A crossover experimental design will be implemented with desk-based administrative employees. Participants will be randomly assigned to three conditions: VR exergaming, MR exergaming, and passive rest. Executive functions will be assessed using the PEBL Victoria Stroop Test, and mood state will be evaluated with the Positive Affect Subscale of PANAS (PA-PANAS). Secondary measures include heart rate, perceived exertion, and exercise adherence intention.The study will address the following research questions:

How do VR and MR exergames influence executive functions compared to passive rest? How do VR and MR exergames affect mood states in workers compared to passive rest? How do VR and MR exergames compare in terms of heart rate response and perceived exertion during workplace microbreaks? How do VR and MR exergames impact exercise enjoyment and the intention to continue exergaming?

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 18 years and older
• No regular physical exercise in the last three months (less than three days per week, less than 30 minutes per session)
• No prior experience with VR/MR technologies
• No history of neurological or cardiovascular disorders
• No epilepsy, vertigo, or inner ear conditions
• No use of medications affecting the central nervous system
• Low or moderate physical activity levels, as assessed by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)
• Cleared for physical activity based on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q)

Exclusion Criteria:

• High physical activity levels as indicated by the IPAQ
• Not meeting the safety criteria for physical activity according to the PAR-Q
• Individuals experiencing dizziness, nausea, or discomfort while using VR/MR
• Vision impairments that prevent the use of VR/MR headsets
• Pregnant individuals