NexerciseVR: A VR-based Exergame for Neck Exercise

Neck pain is a common problem that can result in bad consequences of human suffering and productivity loss. Neck exercise is one of simple solutions to relieve the neck pain, but regular exercise routine usually faces motivational challenges. In order to deal with this problem, this study aimed to develop a novel VR-based exergame for neck exercise. The system is based on three reference exercise motions; cervical flexion, side-flexion and rotation. It uses basic game mechanics of rhythm game and includes fundamental gamification elements. The generated signal moves based on the rhythm of background music and the user should trace the viewpoint inside moving signal by correctly per-forming neck exercise motions inside VR environment. Evaluation of the prototype showed participants felt positively about NexerciseVR in terms of usability and user experience. Solutions generated with feedback from participants would be considered for the further improvement of the system. The proposed system may help people who are suffering or at risk of neck pain for providing more enjoyable and engaging neck exercise experience with better exercise effect.