Exergames can be used to overcome a sedentary lifestyle. Virtual Reality (VR) has made exergames
successful, and they can be used to increase heart rate, but some limitations are found, such as the adaptation
of the heart rate in exergames to the player's fitness profile. VR technology has been used to simulate virtual
cycling and walking experiences. We designed and developed an exergame' Virtual Levadas' in a cave-based
VR environment to simulate the Levadas hiking tracks. They are the main attraction for tourists in Madeira
Island, Portugal. This study's main objective was to assess player exertion, usability, participation, and realism
of the simulation of the Levadas tracks. We performed this study with 13 participants who played Virtual
Levadas for 6 minutes and found a significant increase in player's average physical activity and heart rate.
Overall, our results demonstrate that Virtual Levada's exergame provides a higher exertion level, immersion,
and realism of the virtual environment than the literature.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio
