A team of researchers from Michigan State University recently discovered that individuals who work out with a virtual partner that has higher exercise capacity perform better than people who do not have the technological support.
Study participants performed the plank pose - which strengthens core muscles - and those who exercised with a virtual partner were able to hold the challenging position for 24 percent longer than those who exercised alone.
"One of the key hurdles people cite in not working out is a lack of motivation," said lead researcher Deborah Feltz. "Research has shown working out with a partner increases motivation, and with a virtual partner, you are removing the social anxiety that some people feel working out in public."
Virtual partners were provided through the Sony Playstation 2 and its Eye Toy accessory that allows users to operate video games through physical activity, much like the Nintendo Wii.
Authors of the study said that working out with a virtual partner can help people push themselves further to build muscle without the expense of a personal trainer.
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