# Gym-Specific VR Fitness Plans The YMCA in Minneapolis Offers a Virtual Reality Workout By Ell Smith | Published 2017-10-02 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ymca-in-minneapolis References: [psfk](https://www.psfk.com/2017/10/a-ymca-in-minneapolis-has-implemented-a-virtual-reality-exercise-machine.html) & [ymcamn.org](https://www.ymcamn.org/locations/north_community_ymca) The YMCA in Minneapolis has implemented a [virtual reality fitness program](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fitness-game1) to encourage both seasoned and novice gym-goers to stay in shape. Gyms are typically packed with technology, like premium speakers and televisions that purposefully distract and motivate members to achieve specific fitness goals, however, this new virtual reality system aims to promote enjoyment among those working out, by making an individual feel as though they are "flying and diving." This creative alternative to a traditional workout adds a more unique and creative element to an otherwise tedious experience, encouraging individuals to engage more positively with [high-intensity cardio workouts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aviron-victory-treadmill). This creative experience serves as an example of the relationship that can exist between virtual reality and otherwise ordinary occurrences, like going to the gym. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.8/10 - Popularity: 97% | Activity: 98% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Health](https://www.trendhunter.com/health) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Virtual Reality Fitness Programs:** The implementation of virtual reality technology for fitness aims to make workouts more enjoyable and engaging. - **Creative Alternatives to Traditional Workouts:** New and creative ways of working out, like VR fitness programs, could serve as disruptive alternatives to traditional forms of exercise. - **Innovative Gym Technologies:** The use of innovative technologies in gyms, like VR, could lead to increased member engagement and satisfaction. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Fitness:** The fitness industry could benefit from the implementation of engaging and creative workout alternatives, like virtual reality technology. - **VR Technology:** Virtual reality technology could disrupt the fitness industry, creating innovative workout experiences and increased member engagement. - **Technology in Gyms:** The incorporation of innovative technologies in gyms could attract and retain more members, increasing revenue and overall satisfaction. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Fitness-Focused VR Wearables](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hemvr.md) - [Mixed-Reality Fitness Applications](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kinneta.md) - [In-Store Mixed-Reality Gyms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/worlds-smallest-gym.md) - [Gamified Fitness Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tae-bo-reboot-app.md) - [Mixed Reality Workout Classes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fitxr-slam.md) - [Full-Body VR Workouts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/full-body-vr-workout.md) - [Elderly VR Fitness Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rendeverfit.md) - [VR-Enabling Exercise Attachments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/360vrfit.md) - [Mixed-Reality Wellness Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/alo-moves-xr.md)