Discussing Risks and Benefits in the Future of Hybrid Rehabilitation and Fitness in Mixed Reality

Abstract

In a world where in-person context transitions more into remote and hybrid concepts, we should consider new concepts of interaction in health and rehabilitation and what advantages and disadvantages they bring. One of the rising topics is mixed reality, where we can use the advantages of immersive 3D, 360-degree environments. Meanwhile, physical activity is further decreasing and with it negative effects increase through sedentary behaviour or wrong and untrained movements. In this position paper, we discuss these new risks and potential benefits of mixed reality technology when used for rehabilitation and fitness. We conclude with suggesting better feedback and guidance for physical movement and tasks at home. Improving feedback and guidance for participants could be achieved through using new technologies like virtual reality and motion tracking.