The Anticipated Acceptance of Virtual Reality for Physical Activity with Special Consideration of a Self-Built Low-Cost Setup

Abstract The global decline in physical activity (PA) has stimulated interest in technology supported interventions such as virtual reality (VR). While VR-based PA can enhance motivation and enjoyment, its acceptance in the general population remains unclear. This study examined anticipated acceptance of VR for PA, with specific focus on a self-built low-cost setup. A total of 315 participants completed an online Technology Acceptance Model-based survey including Likert-scale and open-ended items. Structural equation modeling assessed predictors of acceptance for (1) commercially available VR and (2) a self-built low-cost setup. Overall acceptance was low, with mean intention-to-use scores below the scale midpoint for commercial VR (2.23 ± 1.18) and the low-cost setup (2.33 ± 1.26), despite moderately positive attitudes toward VR. For commercial VR, perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness significantly predicted acceptance, whereas perceived enjoyment was the strongest predictor for the low-cost setup. External variables such as age, prior use, curiosity, and willingness to pay showed limited or no influence across models. These findings suggest that intuitive usability and enjoyment, rather than technological sophistication or affordability alone, are critical for VR-supported PA acceptance. VR may therefore function best as a complementary PA tool unless future designs further enhance perceived value and engagement.