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  • Systematic Review
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Techniques and Methods

Virtual reality-enhanced exergames for weight control: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

International Journal of Obesity volume 49, pages 1667–1675 (2025)Cite this article

Subjects

Abstract

Background

Obesity is an important public health issue. Virtual reality provides an opportunity to increase benefits of traditional exercise programs with more immersive, interactive, and enjoyable experiences for weight control.

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the efficacy of virtual reality-enhanced exergames for obesity-related outcomes, including body weight, body mass index, body fat, and waist circumference.

Methods

Six electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Medline, and CINAHL Plus, were searched for randomized controlled trials. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using a random-effects model. In total, 12 qualified studies were selected for both qualitative and quantitative syntheses.

Results

Virtual reality-enhanced exergames exerted small significant effects on improving body weight, body mass index, and body fat percentage. Low heterogeneity and no significant publication bias were found among the studies.

Conclusions

Creating an immersive virtual world is an interesting and effective strategy for users to engage in physical activity. Virtual reality-enhanced exergames are recommended for weight control and obesity prevention across populations.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Gerontology and Long-Term Care, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan

    Hsin-Yen Yen & Huei-Ling Chiu

  2. International PhD Program in Gerontology and Long-Term Care, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan

    Hsin-Yen Yen & Huei-Ling Chiu

  3. Mater Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia

    Hao-Yun Huang

Authors
  1. Hsin-Yen Yen
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  2. Huei-Ling Chiu
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  3. Hao-Yun Huang
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Contributions

HYY: Conceptualization; Resources; Writing – Original Draft Preparation. HLC: Formal Analysis; Methodology; Software; Validation; Writing – Original Draft Preparation. HYH: Writing – Review & Editing.

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Correspondence to Huei-Ling Chiu.

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Yen, HY., Chiu, HL. & Huang, HY. Virtual reality-enhanced exergames for weight control: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Int J Obes 49, 1667–1675 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41366-025-01782-w

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