SPARK: Supporting Physical Activity Through Reality-Augmented Knowledge in COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with dyspnea, reduced physical activity, muscle deconditioning, and impaired quality of life. Pulmonary rehabilitation is an effective non-pharmacological intervention, but access remains limited and long-term adherence to physical exercise is often difficult to maintain. Augmented reality may provide an innovative approach to support exercise practice by offering real-time visual and auditory guidance while allowing patients to remain anchored in their real environment.

The SPARK study is a multicenter, interventional, non-randomized, proof-of-concept study designed to assess the acceptability of an augmented reality virtual coach for physical exercise in adults with COPD. Participants will attend a single experimental session including baseline questionnaires, presentation of the augmented reality headset, a short immersive exercise session guided by a virtual coach, and post-immersion assessments. Acceptability will be evaluated using the Technology Acceptance Model 3 questionnaire before and after immersion. User experience will also be explored through focus group discussions analyzed according to UXive dimensions.

The study aims to determine whether this technology is acceptable to patients with COPD and to identify factors that may facilitate or limit its future integration into pulmonary rehabilitation pathways.