My Experience with Mixed-Reality Strength Training Was Surprising

What makes a workout truly effective? Is it the guidance of a skilled trainer, the ambiance of the environment, or the specific exercises you engage in?

For me, it’s a blend of all three factors. So, when virtual reality workouts emerged, I was initially skeptical. Could they really provide the level of instruction I needed?

However, when the pandemic hit, I decided to give it a shot and got myself a Quest 2. I explored various fitness-focused games like rock climbing in the Alps, meditating in outer space, and engaging in AI-driven workouts. While these experiences were enjoyable and left me feeling energized, I felt they lacked the depth of true fitness instruction, especially for strength training, which I’m passionate about.

Then, in 2023, I stumbled upon Litesport’s new mixed-reality platform. What intrigued me was their use of certified trainers and physical dumbbells in a virtual environment. Despite initial concerns about bumping into walls with a VR headset, the Meta Quest 3’s Passthrough feature seamlessly blended virtual and real-world elements, ensuring safety.

Litesport, formerly known as Liteboxer, was familiar to me as a pioneer in connected fitness, particularly for boxing. Their immersive workouts, synced to music and lights, had always captured my attention. But would their strength training program deliver the same immersive experience?

As I delved into the workout, I found myself transported to a virtual gym, guided by a coach through a series of exercises. Initially using light remote controllers for resistance, I eventually incorporated actual dumbbells, seamlessly facilitated by the Passthrough feature.

What impressed me most was the level of guidance provided by the trainers, keeping me focused and engaged throughout. Without the distraction of mirrors, I could fully immerse myself in the workout, entering a state of flow.

Each exercise was carefully curated for safety and effectiveness, emphasizing slow, controlled movements. The post-workout stats provided valuable insights into muscle engagement and total weight lifted, enhancing the sense of accomplishment.

With workouts ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, Litesport offers convenient options for those working from home. And with upcoming programs tailored to specific strength goals, the platform promises even more value.

In my experience, Litesport is ideal for anyone seeking to enhance their strength in a dynamic and engaging manner, regardless of age or fitness level. It brings the essence of an in-person class directly to your home, combining the convenience of a mobile app with the immersive experience of virtual reality.