Virtual reality (VR) fitness is rapidly gaining traction as a fun and engaging way to exercise. Among the leading VR fitness applications, Supernatural stands out with its immersive environments and rhythm-based workouts. This article delves into the Supernatural VR experience, examining its effectiveness for weight loss, its unique features, and how it compares to other VR fitness options. It also considers both the advantages and potential drawbacks of using Supernatural as a primary fitness tool.
Immersive Workouts in Exotic Locations
Imagine working out on a grassy mountaintop, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and breathtaking scenery. With Supernatural, this isn't a dream-it's a reality. The game transports users to 360-degree wonderlands, from the icy landscapes of Iceland to the red rocks of Lake Powell, making exercise feel less like a chore and more like an adventure. This immersive quality is a key factor in Supernatural's appeal, offering a welcome escape from the monotony of traditional workouts.
The Science Behind VR Fitness
A study from the Behavioral Medicine Lab at the University of Victoria, Canada, published in the JMIR Serious Games journal, investigated the impact of Supernatural's "Flow" and "Boxing" modes on 24 participants with limited VR experience. The study revealed that these medium-intensity workouts produced mood changes consistent with vigorous exercise, leaving participants feeling energized and lively.
Ryan Rhodes, a professor at the University’s School of Exercise Science, led the study, which was commissioned and financed by Meta but carried out independently. His research focuses on "the psychology of enjoyment and being engaged in what you're doing." Rhodes points out that "a lot of exercise is an act of willpower for people," as activities like running on a treadmill can be monotonous and difficult to stick with. VR technology offers a solution by creating engaging experiences that make exercise feel less like a chore.
These findings align with other research, including a 2020 systematic review suggesting that "VR exercise has the potential to exert a positive impact on an individual’s physiological, psychological, and rehabilitative outcomes compared with traditional exercise." The Virtual Reality Institute of Health and Exercise, which studies the effects of VR fitness, has also assessed Supernatural, assigning it ratings based on METs (metabolic equivalents). Aaron Stanton, director of the Institute, notes that the Meta study's average MET score of 7.89 for Supernatural is reasonable, as their own testing rated it even higher at 11.44 METs.
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Addressing Skepticism and Isolation
Leanne Pedante, Supernatural's head of fitness, acknowledges the skepticism surrounding VR fitness, particularly regarding its potential for isolation. She emphasizes that the goal is not to replace real-world activities but to provide an engaging alternative for those who struggle with traditional workouts. The "gamification" aspect of Supernatural, she explains, offers a competitive vibe similar to a group fitness class. Pedante highlights the importance of Supernatural's stickiness, especially considering that a significant portion of the population doesn't meet the CDC's recommended aerobic and muscle-strengthening guidelines. She shares that many users who previously struggled with home workouts have remained consistent with Supernatural for years because of its enjoyable nature.
A Personal Journey with Supernatural
One reviewer embarked on a 60-day trial of Supernatural to evaluate its effectiveness. For the first 30 days, Supernatural was the sole VR fitness app used, with at least 30 unique workouts completed. This allowed for an assessment of its effectiveness in isolation. In the subsequent 30 days, Supernatural was integrated with other VR fitness games, used at least once per week, to determine its long-term value as one of many options.
The Basics of a Supernatural Workout
Each day, Supernatural presents a new workout playlist. Users can choose the new playlist or repeat a past workout, filtering by trainer, length, or intensity. Before each workout, the trainer provides a quick warm-up demonstration. The core gameplay involves using black and white "bats" to hit corresponding colored balloons that emerge from portals. The direction of the swing is indicated by cones on the balloons. Arrow trails signal a full follow-through and turn, while comet tails indicate an exaggerated swing. Golden triangles prompt lunges or squats.
Throughout the workout, the trainer's voice provides continuous commentary, though it cannot be muted entirely. The final score is calculated based on accuracy and the power of the follow-through. A cool-down video with the trainer concludes the workout.
The Lack of Customization and Variety
Despite the immersive backdrops, the workout experience is similar to Beat Saber. The limited customization options make it difficult to justify the subscription price. The inability to choose individual songs or create custom playlists is a significant drawback. While Supernatural emphasizes its licensed pop music, other VR fitness games like Dance Central offer similar music experiences with a one-time purchase. Games like OhShape!, Synth Riders, Audio Trip, Audio Shield, and Racket: NX also allow users to import custom songs, providing a nearly infinite selection of music.
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Disappointing Results and Repetitive Content
After a month of consistent use, the reviewer found no significant changes in weight, muscle mass, or measurements. The calorie burn rate was comparable to other VR fitness apps like Beat Saber and Box VR, but lower than Pistol Whip, Thrill of the Fight, or Ohshape. The workout was deemed decent cardio but not significantly different from less expensive options. Despite the promise of new music daily, many songs were repeated frequently, even within the first month.
Missing Essential Features
Supernatural lacks several features that are standard in other music and rhythm games. There is no option to restart a single song or save progress mid-workout. The forced squats and lunges cannot be disabled, which can be problematic for users with mobility issues or those who prefer to focus on upper body workouts.
Supernatural vs. FitXR: A Detailed Comparison
Supernatural is often compared to other VR fitness apps, particularly FitXR. Both are subscription-based and offer daily new workouts, but they differ in several key aspects.
Price
FitXR is more affordable at $9.99 per month, while Supernatural costs $18.99 per month (or $179.99 per year). Supernatural's higher price is attributed to its ongoing music licensing rights for popular songs.
Workouts
FitXR offers a wider variety of workouts, including Dance, Box, and Hiit (high-intensity interval training). Supernatural primarily focuses on Beat Saber-esque workouts with balloon swatting and occasional squats and lunges. FitXR's Dance classes are full-body workouts, while its Box and Hiit classes involve punching and dodging. Supernatural workouts primarily target the arms, shoulders, and back.
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Music
Supernatural shines in its music selection, featuring curated playlists with well-recognized songs across various genres. However, it lacks playlist customization options. FitXR features generic music and instrumental tracks, but it expands users' music palettes.
Community and Competition
FitXR excels in community and competition, featuring transparent blue avatars of other players' recorded sessions. Supernatural lacks this feature but allows users to follow other members and compare scores through a mobile companion app.
Locations
Supernatural offers breathtaking, scenic locations, while FitXR's locations are less impressive.
Coaches
Supernatural features live-action coaches, while FitXR uses 3D avatars as representations of real-life trainers. Both apps' coaches provide pre-recorded commentary, which can become repetitive.
User Interface
Supernatural's user interface is smoother than FitXR's and includes a companion app.
Litesport: An Alternative VR Fitness Experience
Litesport is another subscription-based VR fitness app that combines hit music, game dynamics, and expert training. It offers boxing, full-body, and strength training workouts, with real, certified trainers guiding users through each session. Litesport emphasizes correct form to reduce injury and improve workout effectiveness.
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