THE TRIP study
Do the immersive qualities of THE TRIP increase the intensity of a person’s workout without them noticing how hard they are pushing themselves?
Introduction
While previous fitness studies have shown that interactive video cycling gets people working out at a higher intensity than they realize, Les Mills wanted to understand whether the combined audio-visual features of THE TRIP™ took this perception to an even higher level. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to establish whether THE TRIP helps a hard workout not seem so challenging.
Question
Do the immersive qualities of THE TRIP increase the intensity of a person’s workout without them noticing how hard they are pushing themselves?
Method
For this study tests were conducted on a group of 20 novice fitness participants. Over an eight-week period they completed eight audio-only group fitness cycling classes and eight immersive classes (featuring digital imagery matched to the music). The study focused on two variables - exercise intensity and perceived exertion.
Results
The results showed the novice group’s rate of perceived exertion (RPE), or how intensely they thought they had worked out, was less doing THE TRIP than when doing the audio-only class, when in fact the intensity was the same.
Conclusion
The results showed that novice exercisers experienced a reduced perception of intensity from the audio-visual experience of THE TRIP. Its immersive qualities enhance their fitness experience and may assist with them keeping up with a regular exercise program going forward.
Recommendation
THE TRIP is an ideal group fitness format for inactive adults starting an exercise program.
More about the author
Bryce Hastings
Bryce Hastings drives the science behind the sweat, leading world class research that shapes how millions of people train. Working alongside internationally renowned research partners, Bryce bridges the gap between the lab and the gym floor, ensuring every LES MILLS™ program is safe, effective, and powered by science.
He has developed numerous research programs and co authored reports across a range of fitness and scientific publications. These include the landmark Get Fit Together trial, alongside research into core conditioning, high intensity interval training, and exercise strategies for sedentary individuals.
A certified Physical Therapist since 1986, Bryce’s academic work is supported by extensive hands on experience. He owned a private practice within the original Les Mills World of Fitness in Auckland and holds an Advanced Diploma in Manipulative Therapy and a Master of Philosophy from Auckland University of Technology, where he serves as a Research Associate and lectured part time for eight years.
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Research
