Phygital Sport: Science proves it works!

The impact of gaming on people’s lives has been debated for many years. Is gaming good for your health? What does it do to your body?

Since gaming became popular worldwide, scientists have studied how it affects the body and mind. Research shows that gaming can actually improve physical performance and health.

Really? Yes. At the core of phygital sports is the idea that both digital and physical activity can benefit your health and improve how you perform in competitions.

Let’s take a look at what researchers have tested and discovered.

How was the study conducted?

In 2024, scientists ran a study with students who trained in boxing. They split the students into two groups. The first group followed their usual physical training. The second group did the same training but also played God of War, Halo, Unreal Tournament, Grand Theft Auto and Call of Duty to see if it affected their core skills.

The students were tested using well-known methods. Researchers measured their speed endurance, reaction time, and ability to focus.

The results were clear. Students who played God of War, Halo, Unreal Tournament, Grand Theft Auto and Call of Duty alongside their regular training showed faster reaction times and better focus than the control group.

The scientists concluded: “Using phygital sports technology during training helps improve reaction speed and concentration.”

A more recent study

Then in 2025, another study in China looked at whether focus-based games could improve physical performance.

Students were again split into two groups. One group completed normal physical exercise. The other group added a 30-minute
Mindflex session to a 90-minute workout.

Mindflex is a game where players wear a headband that reads brain signals. The more focused a player is, the higher a ball rises. If focus drops, the ball falls. The goal is to guide the ball through obstacles using concentration alone.

The results showed that students who used Mindflex improved their attention levels during physical education classes.

Scientists said the game helped students strengthen their focus and learn how to manage it. Both skills are key to better physical performance.

What does this mean?

The research shows that adding digital elements to physical training can improve overall performance.

Phygital is not just for entertainment—it delivers real results.

It also trains the brain, which supports success in both digital and physical activities. This highlights the power and importance of phygital sports.