Exploring the Impact of Virtual Reality Exercise on Psychobiological Indicators in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Feasibility Randomized Crossover Trial

Exercise plays a key role in managing Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM). Virtual Reality-based exercise offers an innovative solution to enhance motivation and deliver meaningful health ben-efits for patients often hesitant to engage in physical activity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of VR-based exercise on biological and psychological parameters of indi-viduals with T1DM compared to traditional exercise, as well as to evaluate their acceptance, in-tention for future use, usability, and preference. In or study, 11 patients with T1DM participated, who underwent two exercise trials. The first was cycling in a cycle ergometer and the second VR-based cycling. A greater reduction in blood glucose was observed after VR-based trial, com-pared with typical cycling. Moreover, there were statistically significant improvements in mood following the VR-based trial, as well as increased interest/enjoyment compared to typical cycling. Additionally, high scores were observed for preference, acceptance, and usability of the VR ex-ercise system. In conclusion, VR-based exercise can enhance mood and increase inter-est/enjoyment of T1DM patients compared to traditional cycling, although no differences were observed in biological parameters such as blood glucose, blood pressure, and heart rate. More-over, the system proved to be user-friendly and well-accepted by these patients without any contraindications.