Here's How Apple's Vision Pro Headset Could Revolutionize the Fitness Industry

(Image credit- iStock) Apple has been developing fitness, training, and well-being apps for its Vision Pro headset. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) both promise to be very beneficial for fitness. Apple is working on features for the Vision Pro mixed reality headset, including a yoga program that can monitor your breathing by using cameras to record the rise and fall of your chest, a virtual cycling app, and more, according to a report. It has considered collaborating with Nike to create workouts, and it has even considered using specialized face cushions for sweaty activities.   [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="1500"] Image credit- Lifewire[/caption]

VR Workout Involving Spatial Awareness

There are a ton of fantastic ways to use AR and VR in exercise. VR is a rather clear choice, similar to practicing yoga next to a conveniently silent waterfall or riding a bike across stunning countryside. Never again would you have to perform a low cobra while looking at the dust under the sofa. There are existing VR workout apps for other VR headsets, but Apple's distinctive approach to VR would be helpful in this case. With the virtual crown on the Vision Pro, you may reduce immersion so that you don't feel as alone. Additionally, the Vision Pro allows anybody else to enter the room and instantly enter your virtual world, preventing surprises. Also read: Wearables With AI Could Recognise Users’ Mental Health and Well-Being

VR is great for certain kinds of exercises

Exercises done while seated, such as those done on a stationary cycle or rowing machine, are the best since they let you take in the landscape without having to worry about losing your balance or falling over. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="852"] Image credit- VR Fitness Insider[/caption]

Workouts in Augmented Reality

On the other hand, augmented reality sounds like it would be much more appropriate. If your yoga instructor is present in the room, you may be able to move around them to have a better view of how to perform a certain pose. You wouldn't need to look at your watch to read numbers and metrics that may float large in the background. And visualize yourself practicing kickboxing with floating targets to hit and kick, such as virtual zombies. You can still see your own body parts and the space you're in with augmented reality. This, along with the almost zero-lag display of the Vision Pro, might be enough to prevent you from losing your balance. Unless you're trying to effortlessly move from a warrior three to a crane posture without falling over, which is difficult enough in everyday life. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Image credit- VistaCreate[/caption] The physical challenges of using a headset while exercising are another factor. You are still sweating into something that is clamped to your face despite having that specific sweat-ready face cushion. Additionally, wearing a headset changes the balance of your head, so if you're running or doing HIIT training, it will undoubtedly bounce around. Then there are the purely technical issues that every technology encounters, such as software bugs or issues with the cable that connects the Vision Pro headset to its battery pack, or "tail" cable. However, if those issues can be resolved, a lot more people will find exercise appealing. Better sensors and body awareness could result in more immersive experiences in already engaging hobbies like yoga and dancing, while virtual worlds could avoid the monotony of some routines.