Overview
This study is evaluating the effects of riding on a cycle ergometer while experiencing virtual reality to determine its effect on mood.
Description
Adults (males and females) above the age of 18 yrs will be recruited to determine if they have symptoms of depression based on a questionnaire (Center for Epidemiologic Studies - Depression Scale (CES-D). They will then complete a Beck Inventory before and after the exercise. Participants will be divided into groups either having symptoms of depression or not. They will be randomized to ride on a cycle ergometer with or without using Virtual Reality (VR) that will allow them to view neighborhoods or parks during the exercise. The ergometer will be set at resistance raising the heart rate to 65% of their age-predicted heart rate maximum. They will ride for 20 min and then complete the Beck Inventory to determine any changes in their depressive symptoms.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Males and females over the age of 18 years
- With or without symptoms of depression
- Physically inactive or sedentary (less than 30 minutes per day)
- Normal vision and no color blindness
- No physical disorders such as walking with assistance
Exclusion Criteria:
- Below the age of 18 years or over 65 years,
- Women who are pregnant
- Individuals who have been diagnosed with mental disorders
- Individuals with leg injuries
- Individuals with cardiac problems
- Individuals with a history of asthma
- Individuals with a body mass index over 30.