Beat Saber is a virtual reality game that has taken the world by storm, with millions of players worldwide. Its popularity is not just due to its fun and immersive gameplay, but also because it has become one of the most popular VR workouts available. In this review, we will explore what makes Beat Saber such an effective workout, and how it has become the go-to choice for fitness enthusiasts and VR gamers alike. From its fast-paced upper body movements and side-to-side leaning, to its occasional squats to avoid obstacles, Beat Saber provides a full-body workout that is both challenging and enjoyable.
We’ll also delve into the different gameplay modes and features that make Beat Saber a perfect choice for players of all skill levels, and how it can be customized to fit your specific fitness goals. So if you’re looking for a fun and effective way to get in shape, read on to find out why Beat Saber is the most popular VR workout on the market.
Verdict
About Beat Saber
| Release Date | 1st May 2018 |
| Developer | Beat Games |
| Oculus rating with # of Reviews | 4.6/5 (45,537) |
| Steam % of upvotes with # of reviews | 96% (60,483) |
| Genres | Music & Rhythm, Fitness |
| Replayability | Extremely High |
Beat Saber Video Review
What is Beat Sabers Gameplay Like?
Beat Saber is a virtual reality rhythm game developed and published by Beat Games.
It is played by slicing luminous swords through blocks that represent musical beats using a pair of virtual reality controllers. The blocks are either red or blue, and the player must slice them while avoiding obstacles in the color-designated direction.
The songs become more difficult and the pace at which the blocks are delivered quickens as the player advances through the game. Beat Saber also includes a level editor, allowing players to create and share their own custom levels.
How many calories can you burn playing Beat Saber?
The Virtual Reality Institute of Health and Exercise conducted an experiment to measure the energy output while playing Beat Saber. The experiment found that the game’s potential as exercise is impacted by the player’s skill level, with more skilled players able to achieve higher levels of energy expenditure. The game was found to be consistent and playable for extended periods of time, and raters felt that their sample was likely representative of a typical play across most moderate to expert skill levels.
The game was observed to have an energy expenditure of 6.55-7.45 calories per minute, and had a peak sustained metabolic equivalent (MET) of 7.18 and an average MET of 6.24.
Beat Saber was rated as providing moderate intensity exercise or the equivalent of playing a game of tennis.
Fitness Intensity
I did a 30 minute session of Beat Saber taking a small break between each song and recorded the results on my Garmin Forerunner watch. In 30 minutes, I burnt approximately 297 calories with an average heart rate of 124 BPM.
Upper Body vs Lower Body
Beat Saber is without a doubt upper body focused. Primary exercise in Beat Saber comes from fast upper body movement when slicing the boxes and occasional squats. It does not require much movement of the feet unless users opt for the 360 degrees mode.
Beat Saber for Mobility and Stretching
One of the problems with a sedentary lifestyle is tight shoulder and hips from so much sitting. I’ve recently started using Beat Saber as a means of mobility and stretching. So I’ll pick any song on the easiest difficulty, stand in a wide stance (literally splits for me), and use a full range of motion slicing all the way through the block and stretching up to really open up the shoulder.
When dodging I’ll lean side to side which stretches out the inner thigh and to duck under obstacles I’ll forward fold to hit the hamstrings. This is the perfect way to warm up for or unwind after an intense VR workout session
Is Beat Saber worth it?
The game’s simple concept and high skill ceiling make it accessible for players of all skill levels. The ability to download your own custom songs, the consistent updates and paid DLC releases ensure that there is always new songs and content to explore.
Beat Saber Tips
- Take your ego out of it. Go for slower songs while learning.
- Using strong and precise strikes will increase the effectiveness of the workout.
- You can complete the song half squat. This will massively increase the workload on your legs.
- Use the string tie to secure the controllers to your hand. Don’t send one flying across the room!
- Use the “No Fail” augment to ensure the song doesn’t cut out half way while learning.