VR Dancing: Benefits, Tips, and How to Get Started

two images showing VTuber Nem and choreographer dancing in the same movement in VR and physical world

🔎 The Inside Scoop: Why We Handpicked This Article for Repost With advancements in trackers and sensors for XR devices, VR now offers a variety of wellness activities, including immersive dancing experiences. Explore the growing trend of VR dancing, supported by scientific studies highlighting virtual reality's therapeutic benefits for mental health. Join Nem as she shares insights into the basics of VR dancing, based on her own experience participating in a recent VR dance event. (By VIVERSE Editorial Team)

Let's get healthy by dancing in the virtual world! In this article, I've outlined the benefits, challenges, and tips of VR dancing, based on my firsthand experience participating in the recent みんなで踊ろうメタバースデイ (Let's Dance in the Metaverse Day) event. Be sure to check out the choreography videos for VR dancing at the end of this article and give it a try yourself!

Three Benefits of VR Dancing

1. Have a Blast Striking Poses with Your Avatars!

image from Let's Dance in the Metaverse Day event showing multiple avatars dancing

In virtual environments where movement is controlled via a device, physical exercise often takes a back seat. However, incorporating exercise consciously into virtual experiences can be highly rewarding.

Through VR dancing, you can express yourself via various avatar styles, turning posing into an enjoyable activity. Trying it out, you'll discover it's even more fun than anticipated. For those obsessed with their avatars, VR dancing serves as a motivating factor to get moving. Previous studies* have highlighted that exercising in virtual reality not only boosts physical activity but also enhances psychological satisfaction, benefiting both physical and mental health.

*Previous Study: The Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Exercise on Individual's Physiological, Psychological and Rehabilitative Outcomes: A Systematic Review - PubMed

2. Engage Your Whole Body with Full-body Tracking

image from Let's Dance in the Metaverse Day event showing multiple avatars dancing using VR full body tracking device

Participants in the event utilized different setups to gather in the virtual space and dance in their own ways, setups from VR with three-point tracking (only headsets with left and right controllers), full-body tracking (using additional sensors on the waist and legs), to just dancing in front of the screen at their desks.

Those with full-body tracking could fully immerse themselves in the dance through exercising their whole body while controlling their avatars' movements with precision. This allowed for a complete dance experience without leaving the comfort of home.

3. Connect Across Time and Space in Virtual Worlds

image from Let's Dance in the Metaverse Day event showing multiple avatars dancing on a virtual stage

Finding exercise buddies can be challenging. However, in virtual worlds, gathering with friends is as simple as donning VR devices. Sharing the same virtual space fosters a sense of unity, making group activities like VR dancing become a major culture.

Conducted in collaboration with Swiss anthropologist Lyudmila Bredikina, the Social VR Lifestyle Survey 2023 revealed a significant interest in dance and exercise events. Out of approximately 2,000 social VR residents who responded, the percentage of those who mentioned "dance/exercise-related" as their "frequently participated community or event" was 20% for VRChat users and 23% for Cluster users. By region, there was a high level of interest in dance/exercise in North America, at 37%.

graphics and charts from Social VR Lifestyle Survey 2023 conducted by VTuber Nem and Swiss anthropologist Lyudmila Bredikina — Community (by platform) - Social VR Lifestyle Survey 2023

*Reference: Social VR Lifestyle Survey 2023

Challenges and Safety Tips for VR Dancing

image from Let's Dance in the Metaverse Day event showing multiple avatars dancing with a real-life choreography video

A potential drawback of VR dancing is the need for VR equipment and proficiency in using it. Initially, it may feel challenging to move while wearing VR devices, so it's essential to take precautions and avoid overexertion. Additionally, some headsets may fog up with sweat, posing a risk of heatstroke. Ensure adequate ventilation and space to prevent accidents while immersed in dancing.

Exploring VR Dancing through Practices

The recent VR dance event, Let's Dance in the Metaverse Day, supervised by professional dancers and medical experts, showcased the potential of VR for promoting health. The event, held on Cluster, attracted a large number of VR residents, underscoring VR dancing’s role in wellness promotion. Archives of the event are now open to public, offering valuable insights into successful large-scale VR dance events.

Furthermore, professional dancer KANAME has released dance practice videos choreographed for Metaverse Day*. Follow along with KANAME's moves and dive into VR dancing yourself. The video and audio are open for use in dance covers.