Impact of Audience Presence on Pressure and Running Performance: The Potential of AR Presence

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of audience presence on the experience of running on a treadmill by specifically examining perceived pressure, calorie expenditure, and heart rate. The primary objective was to understand how various types of audiences—live audience, video call, augmented reality (AR) characters, and no audience—affect runners' performance and psychological states. By exploring these scenarios, this study identified the role of audience presence in influencing exercise outcomes. The significance of this study lies in its potential to enhance exercise interventions and promote long-term commitment to physical activity. By leveraging AR technology, our results may contribute toward managing pressure and improving performance by offering innovative solutions to support both physical and mental well-being in the exercise context.

Keywords: Audience Presence, Augmented Reality (AR), Perceived Pressure, Running Performance, Social Facilitation

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005605