The Next Evolution of Exercise & Workout Routine

Immersive technologies like virtual reality are reshaping exercise by turning workouts into interactive, game-like experiences that prioritize engagement and enjoyment. Instead of following repetitive routines, users enter virtual environments where their bodies become the controllers – punching, squatting, lunging, or dancing to progress through challenges. VR fitness programs such as rhythm-based games, boxing simulations, and guided workouts place users in visually rich settings, from futuristic arenas to scenic landscapes, which helps reduce boredom and lowers perceived exertion. Research shows that many of these experiences reach moderate to vigorous intensity levels comparable to traditional cardio, while participants often report feeling less fatigued because their attention is focused on gameplay rather than effort.

Beyond physical benefits, immersive fitness supports motivation, consistency, and accessibility. Multiplayer modes and shared virtual spaces add a social dimension, allowing friends or family to work out together from different locations, while competitive elements like scores and leaderboards encourage users to push themselves. VR workouts also lend themselves to short, flexible sessions that can be “microdosed” throughout the day, making it easier to meet movement guidelines without committing to long gym visits. For people intimidated by traditional fitness settings or burned out on standard routines, immersive exercise offers a private, adaptive, and often more sustainable way to stay active – blurring the line between play and physical training.

Come join us for free, at AWE Nite Chicago | The Next Evolution of Exercise & Workout Routine, taking place at 5:30pm on February 4 at 2112 Chicago.

What's The Format:

We will start with informal networking with demonstrations, then host a panel discussion to answer audience questions, and we end with more networking and demonstrations. We keep it simple and informal – this meetup is about you, our members, and not just a soap box for the host, presenters, or our sponsors. Come and get your questions answered, take your next step in Immersive Technology.
5:30-8:30pm Central

5:30-6:15 PM Networking & Tech Demos

6:15-6:30 PM Welcome Message

6:30-7:10 PM Panelist Presentations

7:10-7:45 PM Panel Discussion with Q&A

7:45-8:30 PM Networking & Tech Demos

Hosts:
Matt Wren - In-Person Host
Founder of The Next Evolution Nonprofit Event Series & VRAR Chicago

Caroline Dennis - Virtual Host
Two-Degrees.io & XRWomen

Panel Members:
Details Coming Soon...

Attending The Next Evolution

Joining in Person:

2112 | 4245 N Knox Ave

conveniently located off Interstate 90/94, one (1) block from the CTA Montrose Blue Line stop as well as the Metra Mayfair stop.
Watching the Live Stream

Primary Live Stream | www.youtube.com/@AWEXR/streams

People can join by watching the scheduled live stream where we will field questions from!

Joining Virtually in FRAME
Framevr.io/the-next-evolution-awe-nite-chicago

We encourage folks to join us in the virtual environment by simply clicking the link above.

The Frame virtual environment resembles a physical space, so you will be able to talk with other attendees prior to the start of the presentations. We suggest that you arrive no later than 6:00pm and we will get started promptly at 6:15. Please try to get familiar with the technology prior to the meetup, as we will be unable to provide support during the event. Share your camera or simply be a unique avatar or a robot!

The Next Evolution | AWE Nite Chicago Event Series (produced by VRAR Chicago) is now and always will be 100% free to attend.
Thanks to The Next Evolution Sponsors like UL Solutions, 2112, and beverage sponsors [system] seltzers and Revolution Brewing.

We would also like to thank our Community Partners that help us continue spreading the joy of immersive technologies: FrameVR, XR Women, NVZN, Patched Reality, Two Degrees.io, International Game Developers Association Chicago (IGDA Chicago).

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Host or Publisher The Next Evolution, NFP