The pandemic has made it difficult for people to go outside and visit their local gym, which is why new technology is paving the way for a new kind of workout routine that you can do at home.
The popularity of VR fitness has changed the way people approach exercise. Nowadays, it’s possible for you to get in shape while having fun and without leaving your home. Plus, there’s no need to invest in the bulky exercise equipment that takes up a lot of space in your home.
To take your VR workouts a step further and make them easily customizable for users, immersive VR fitness platform for Meta Quest, FitXR, has launched a new mobile companion app. This new app aims to take your FitXR experience to a whole new level with features that will let you plan your workouts ahead of time, track your progress, and more.
According to FitXR Senior Product Manager Ryan Kenward, they added these particular features to solve three key user problems.
“Users struggle to view performance data post-workout, covered in sweat with a foggy headset, plus they want more in-depth insights and data to really review their progress,” said Kenward. “The mobile app allows users to compare their performance over time, plus break down their workout to see where they can improve, all from the comfort of their phone.”
He adds that users often struggle with finding their favorite workout. “To find a workout they love, users need to load up the VR app, search and find workouts, which is time-consuming and doesn’t always fit into their lifestyle,” he said. “The mobile app allows users to save workouts for later, ready to complete in VR as soon as they open the VR app.”
Another problem that the app addresses is how users think that FitXR doesn’t fit into their “wider fitness lifestyle.” According to Kenward, “FitXR is one of our users’ fitness platforms, which is currently disconnected from the tools they use to keep fit. The mobile app opens the door for integrations with other fitness platforms.”
VR Fitness: FitXR Mobile App—Packed With Features That You’ll Love
Let’s take a look at some of the new mobile app features that will help you make the most out of your VR fitness routine:
Create Weekly Goals
Stay on top of your fitness journey by setting weekly goals. FitXR’s mobile app will let you determine the number of days you want to train every week. Once you achieve your goal, you can earn a Goal Streak.
So, what exactly is a Goal Streak?
“A goal streak is when a user sets a goal for the number of days active per week. When a user hits the goal for a week, say 3 times per week, then they hit their target,” explains Kenward. “If they complete multiple weeks active at the level the user has committed to, this earns a streak. In the future, users will earn badges for completing streak milestones, 5, 10, and 15 weeks in a row!”
Browse and Save Classes
Browse the entire catalog of FitXR classes even without donning your headset. Choose your favorite classes and save them using your mobile device.
Access to In-Depth Results
Want to challenge yourself? Get access to a comprehensive performance report on each class to analyze your performance and improve your streak or score.
Monitor Progress
Keeping track of your progress can be challenging. The FitXR mobile app lets you view your progress over time, so you can see just how far you’ve come in your fitness journey. Track your total class time, how many calories you’ve burned, and how many points you’ve earned.
While users can see their post-workout results on their VR devices, they can view them in more detail using the mobile app. Kenward adds that users can share their workout overview screens for Box, HIIT, and Dance programs.
How to Set Up the FitXR Mobile App
Setting up the mobile app is easy. Start by downloading FitXR companion app via the App Store or Google Play Store.
Open FitXR using your VR headset and log into your FitXR profile. Once you’re in, go to the Profile section and click the “Mobile App” button. Select the “Generate Code” option to get a six-digit code.
Next, open the mobile app and follow the onboarding process. When you receive a prompt asking for the code, input the code you received from the VR app and click “Pair” to sync your account and details to your FitXR mobile app.
Why Try Virtual Fitness Programs?
Workouts can often feel like a chore or something that’s dreaded. However, unlike conventional methods of working out, VR fitness programs add an element of play to your usual routine. Their engaging music and visuals help keep you immersed in a virtual environment while minimizing external distractions.
Furthermore, VR fitness programs let you exercise with friends, which adds a touch of friendly competition to your routines. You can also engage in VR fitness anywhere, anytime. It lets you squeeze in a few minutes of exercise in between work or chores and try out new routines in the privacy of your own home.
Despite the virtual nature of these new fitness programs, you will still be able to enjoy the benefits that come with their more traditional real-world counterparts.
VR fitness has become more than just a passing trend. It’s now perceived as a viable substitute for gyms and other conventional fitness programs and one that can deliver positive results not only for your physical health but also for your overall wellbeing.
