Integration of the wingate anaerobic test into a virtual reality- based evaluation system

Abstract Background With the advancement of technology, it is considered an important step to transfer assessment methods to the virtual environment as it provides individuals with the opportunity for equal feedback, improves test performance and allows for testing with maximum participation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects and differences between the classic Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT) and a virtual reality-based Wingate Test (VR-WAnT) on the test performance of athletes and to investigate their applicability to athletes. Methods Thirty male athletes aged between 18 and 25 years from professional football teams were included in the study. The athletes’ age, height, weight, total years of sport experience, scores on the system usability scale and satisfaction with the two different testing methods were assessed. A scenario covering all phases of the WAnT and requiring no external cues was prepared by the project team and integrated into the virtual reality headset. Athletes were first assessed using the classic WAnT in a controlled laboratory environment, and two days later the same athletes were assessed using the VR-WAnT in the same environment. Maximum power, minimum power, average power and fatigue index data from the test system were recorded for analysis. Results The results of the study showed no statistically significant differences in maximum power, minimum power, average power and fatigue index values between the two methods (p > 0.05). However, according to the satisfaction measurement, the results of the VR-WAnT were statistically significantly higher compared to the classic WAnT (p = 0.026). Conclusions VR-WAnT may be considered a promising alternative for anaerobic performance testing due to its potential to enhance user experience and satisfaction. It is also believed that the test may offer greater comfort for both practitioner and athletes, while introducing a novel dimension to physiotherapy and rehabilitation assessment processes. Trial registration NCT06661395 (Registration Date: 24 Oct 2024).