Immersive VR exercise (exergaming) generates moderate-to-vigorous physical activity comparable to traditional exercise and may enhance NAD+ metabolism via NAMPT activation.
The review finds that immersive VR exercise (exergaming) produces levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity similar to traditional exercise. It suggests that such activity may enhance NAD+ metabolism through NAMPT activation, though no human study has yet measured blood NAD+ levels alongside VR interventions.
Evidence Score
Study Evidence
Study 1. Virtual Nature, Metaverse, and NAD⁺: A Narrative Review for Health Planning and Healthy Ageing.
observationalNakajima T, Koibuchi Y · Health science reports (2026)
Result:
Mechanism Graph
Limitations
- ⚠No human study has simultaneously assessed VR interventions and blood NAD+ levels
- ⚠Review is narrative and based on selected publications, not systematic meta-analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What is exergaming?▼
Exergaming refers to video games that require physical activity, often using virtual reality (VR) to engage users in exercise-like movements.
How does VR exercise compare to traditional exercise?▼
The review indicates that immersive VR exercise generates moderate-to-vigorous physical activity comparable to traditional exercise.
What is NAD+ and why is it important?▼
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a key molecule involved in cellular metabolism and ageing; its levels decline with age and are linked to health outcomes.
Has any study measured NAD+ levels after VR exercise?▼
No, the review states that no human study has yet assessed blood NAD+ levels in conjunction with VR interventions.
Products
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References
- 1.Nakajima T, Koibuchi Y. "Virtual Nature, Metaverse, and NAD⁺: A Narrative Review for Health Planning and Healthy Ageing.." Health science reports, 2026. PMID: 42440917 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.72389