Lose weight ... avatar

Observing your avatar with good weight loss behavior can help some people lose weight.

This may be a low-cost approach that helps millions of obese Americans learn the skills and behaviors they need to lose weight over time, according to a report in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology.

An avatar is exercising on a walker in the virtual world - (Photo: Temple University)

"This pilot study demonstrates that you do not need to be a newbie to use virtual reality technology to learn some important skills to lose weight," said Melissa Napolitano, a University professor. George Washington (USA).

This small study, however, shows that virtual reality can be a promising new tool for developing healthy habits.

A survey of 128 obese women found that despite having no experience using virtual reality technology, even online gaming, 88% of respondents said they were willing to use a program with an avatar avatar. Attempts to cultivate weight loss habits.

Many participants in the study said tracking the avatars could help them visualize and apply behaviors such as exercising and choosing healthier foods.