Using virtual reality to enhance cycling for people with Parkinson's disease
Official title: Virtual Cycling Environments (VCYCLE) Increases Exercise Intensity of Persons With Parkinson Disease
Run by Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey · NCT04804202 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if using virtual reality while cycling can make the exercise more enjoyable and effective for people with Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 45 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Newark, New Jersey and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 8, 2021 |
| Main results expected | August 2026 |
| Study ends | December 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | July 13, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04804202 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include individuals aged 45-75 with a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease at Hoehn and Yahr stages II-III who can ride a stationary bicycle.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe heart or lung disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or other significant medical conditions that impair their ability to bicycle may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of virtual reality on the exercise experience of individuals with Parkinson's disease while cycling. Participants will engage in two sessions where they will bicycle in both immersive (with goggles) and semi-immersive (projected on a screen) virtual environments. The study aims to assess the intensity and enjoyment of cycling with and without virtual reality, as well as the impact of different cycling modes (interval vs. continuous). Oxygen consumption will be measured, and participants will complete questionnaires after each exercise bout to evaluate their experiences.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the exercise experience for patients with Parkinson's disease, potentially improving their physical activity levels and overall quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of virtual reality in exercise for various conditions is gaining interest, this specific approach for Parkinson's disease is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease 2. Hoehn and Yahr stages II-III, 3. 45-75 years old 4. able to ride a stationary upright bicycle 5. able to sign informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Have a recent history of severe heart disease, severe lung disease, uncontrolled diabetes, traumatic brain injury or neurological disorder other than Parkinson Disease. 2. Are unable to follow directions or sign a consent form 3. Do not have adequate vision or hearing ability to see or hear a television 4. Have unstable medical condition or musculoskeletal disorder such as severe arthritis, recent knee surgery, hip surgery, or any other condition that the investigators determine would impair the ability to ride the bicycle 5. Have any other medical condition that prevents bicycling 6. Have moderate depression
Where it's running
-
School of Health Professions
Newark, New Jersey, United States Recruiting -
New York Institute of Technology
Old Westbury, New York, United States Completed
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Judith E. Deutsch, PT PhD — Rutgers
- Study coordinator: Judith Deutsch, PT, PhD
- Email: deutsch@rutgers.edu
- Phone: 973-972-2373
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.