After losing over 30 pounds exercising in VR for six months, I can say it’s worth the effort (and sweaty faceplates)

James Bentley, a hardware writer, lost approximately 35 pounds since January 2026 by integrating virtual reality (VR) exercise into his daily routine. Using a Meta Quest 3 and a FitXR subscription, Bentley combined immersive workouts with improved eating habits and progress tracking to reach his health goals, according to his personal account.

How does VR exercise impact weight loss?

Bentley reported a weight loss of around 35 pounds since the start of January. He attributed this result to a combination of daily VR workouts and a conscious decision to eat better and track his progress.

To maintain consistency, Bentley utilized an Apple exercise function to track “rings,” specifically targeting a green ring that requires 30 minutes of exercise per day. He stated that VR’s immersiveness allowed him to push himself further than he would during walking or simple calisthenics, often leaving him “panting and sweaty” after half-hour sessions.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of VR fitness?

Bentley identified convenience as the primary selling point of VR exercise. He noted that the ability to perform 10- to 15-minute sessions during lunch or to wake up avoided the preplanning and travel time required by a traditional gym.

The writer also highlighted a psychological benefit, stating that exercising at home removed the self-consciousness he felt in public gym settings. He further increased engagement by using “passthrough mode,” which allowed him to watch anime or listen to podcasts while performing combat exercises.

However, Bentley noted several downsides, including the high initial cost of the hardware and the discomfort of a “sweaty faceplate.” He mentioned that while the subscription is cheaper than a gym membership, it does not provide the physical equipment found in a professional facility.

What factors influenced the success of the experiment?

Consistency was driven by a set of ground rules and financial accountability. Bentley committed to filling his 30-minute exercise ring daily, even if he had already been active through hiking or stairs at work, to ensure the headset did not “get dusty.”

Bentley admitted that he was motivated by a desire not to let his subscription fee go to waste. He also noted that the lack of “shame” associated with returning to a home VR setup after a break—compared to returning to a gym—made it easier to resume his routine after lapses caused by hay fever or summer heat.

What may happen next with this routine?

Bentley indicated he will likely continue using VR exercise as long as it remains a fun and stress-free way to improve his life. His current goals include increasing his stamina to perform long hikes and runs with less effort.

Future progress may depend on his ability to manage complacency and environmental factors, such as seasonal heat, which Bentley noted had previously slowed his momentum.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much weight did James Bentley lose using VR exercise?
Bentley lost around 35 pounds since January 2026.

What equipment and software were used in this experiment?
Bentley used a Meta Quest 3 headset and a subscription to FitXR.

What were the main disadvantages of VR exercising?
The primary drawbacks included the expensive initial cost of the headset, the monthly subscription fee, and the discomfort of a sweaty faceplate.

Do you think the convenience of home-based VR workouts outweighs the benefits of traditional gym equipment?