Aim: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of virtual reality exercises (Xbox Kinect) on children's motivational components for participation in physical activity based on presenting a motivational model.

Methods: The present study is a quasi-experimental one and is classified as applied research according to the type of research. The study population included all elementary school students 1750 person in Khoy city during 2019-2020. Samples were selected using available sampling method and after pre-test using motivation questionnaire 20 students were selected and randomly divided into 2 groups of 10 (experimental and control). The experimental group performed the Xbox Kinect game interventions for two months, while the control group received no standardized exercise.

Results: After the study samples were homogenized using motivation questionnaire. The results of analysis of covariance showed that there was a significant difference between the mean scores of the subscales of motivation of the subjects in terms of group membership (P = 0.001).

Conclusion: The opportunity for developing sports motivation in children can be improved by designing appropriate movement programs (e.g., Xbox Kinect) and enriching the educational environment.