Be Fit With Biray

Finally a fitness facility bold enough to ‘officially’ go where many avatars have gone before – Second Life!

As the ‘unofficial’ Health and Wellness Correspondent in Second Life, I have Kix Kayamanu has always talked about the potential of fitness professionals sharing their expertise and education in a virtual environment. People (or in this case, avatars) who may not otherwise enter a gym or be drawn to traditional fitness programs may find this space a much more welcoming place to engage with personal trainers.

While the concept of virtual fitness in Second Life has had slow adoption rates, Club One is attempting to lead the way in investing their efforts in the virtual space.

Check out the video below that highlights some of Club One’s Second Life amenities:

What I like most about their approach is their focus on behavior change. Not only are they recognizing the importance of education in a 3D space, but they are also stressing that behavior change begins from having increased knowledge and self-efficacy. In essence, those who engage in virtual activities and imagine themselves participating in these behaviors will ultimately make a smoother transitions into real world fitness. At least that’s the theory.

Just imagine those who may be intimidated by personal trainers or exercise physiologists, having the opportunity to ask questions and explore their own health and fitness in an environment that is familiar and comfortable to them!

It is still hard to say how many ‘avatars’ will take to this concept or how many fitness professionals will be equipped with the instructional skills to educate and train in a TRUE virtual environment. But, as for me and my alter-ego Kix Kayamanu, we will certainly do our best to support their efforts and keep you posted of their progress!