Virtual reality technology in sports training and rehabilitation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Quantitatively evaluate VR effects on sports training and rehabilitation outcomes and map the research land scape. Systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA 2020). PubMed and Scopus (inception to May 2026). Studies applying VR/AR/MR to motor training or rehabilitation in athletes, patients, or healthy adults. 64 studies includedfrom246 records. Meta-analysis (20 effect sizes, 13 studies) gave SMD = 0.27 (95% CI: 0.12–0.42; p < 0.001; I² =0.7%). Immersive VR (SMD = 0.42) outperformed non-immersive (SMD = 0.31). Largest benefit in healthy adults (SMD=0.34). Publication output grew sharply after 2020 (64.1% of studies). Research frontiers shifted from traditional rehabilitation to immersive VR and motor skill transfer. Egger’s test showed no publication bias (p = 0.781). VR confers small-to-moderate benefit. Immersive VR is promising for motor skill learning. The field lacks standardised hardware reporting and high-quality RCTs