Abstract: Various systems and methods that enhance an exercise activity performed by a user are described. In some embodiments, the systems and methods include a gaming platform that presents video games, virtual games, and other digital or interactive experiences to players that are working out or performing an exercise activity. The platform can facilitate the control of game actions within a game based on what the user does or performs during the exercise activity, such as when the user adjusts a difficulty level of the exercise activity.

Abstract: Systems and methods that determine a “strive score,” “effort score,” and/or other metrics that represent intensity levels or effort levels for the user as they perform different workouts or exercise activities are described. For example, the user can perform various activities via exercise machines (e.g., treadmills and/or exercise bicycles) or without machines (e.g., Pilates, running, lifting weights), and the systems and methods can monitor the user's heart rate to determine both specific and overall intensities or efforts expended by the user when performing the activities. The systems and methods can utilize the scoring metrics to present visual graphics or indicia that inform a user of their current effort within an exercise class or activity, their cumulative effort within the class or activity, their comparative effort within the class or activity, and/or other information.