A system includes processing circuitry configured to receive sensor data regarding a user operating a head mounted display (HMD). The processing circuitry is configured to identify a plurality of reference points of a pose of the user based at least on the sensor data. The processing circuitry is configured to apply one or more models to the plurality of reference points to determine a type of the pose of the user. The processing circuitry is configured to select a mode of operation of the HMD responsive to the type of the pose.