By: Kevin Fu
The Evolution of Automation
Automation has been around since the Greeks with their creation of the water clock, which used water to measure time automatically. Since then it has evolved dramatically. In the early 19th century, the Jacquard Loom utilized punched cards to control the weaving pattern of complex textile patterns (Scienceandindustrymuseum). The newest breakthrough has been the creation of AI, or artificial intelligence. AI has progressed at an astonishing pace, and its rapid advancement has left several wondering if it will have the ability to one day take over the fitness industry.
Role of AI in Fitness
AI can significantly transform fitness apps from basic tracking tools into highly personalized digital companions that can actively support user engagement and long-term success of members. This transformation is driven by AI’s ability to analyze large amounts of individual data in real time and transform it into recommendations. However, AI still needs time to improve, with it still having what is called “inherent bias.” Inherent bias is basically when an AI model is trained on historical data that can overrepresent or underrepresent certain groups, resulting in skewed data. This becomes a problem, as the AI can potentially recommend workouts that are too intense, resulting in injury or worse for the user. This bias can be reduced if AI prioritizes on individual-level data such as heart rate variability, sleep duration and quality, body composition, etc. This gives AI the ability to give users customized workouts, nutrition guidance, and recovery tips that are aligned with the physical condition of the user rather than relying on generic routines. For instance, if a user is displaying signs of constant fatigue or high heart rates, the app can recommend lower-intensity workouts or additional recovery days. When indicators improve, the program can begin to gradually increase the intensity of the workouts or introduce new challenges.
Caption: New Tech Entering The Fitness Industry
This level of personalization is unlike traditional fitness apps that rely on broad demographic data such as gender and age. While this does provide some assistance, it fails to account for other factors such as energy, stress, or recovery. Additionally, users aren’t able to give these traditional fitness apps feedback, as they are only meant to follow basic instructions. AI is able to constantly adapt to the needs of the user, resulting in a more relevant and supportive experience. This also benefits the operators of workout apps. As a result, workout programs are no longer static, but continuously evolving. These developments help users stay motivated, as they aren’t receiving repetitive instructions that can feel overwhelming at times.
Conclusion
Ultimately, AI has the potential to transform fitness apps into intelligent and adaptive platforms that can support both health outcomes and efficiency for individuals. By delivering these personalized experiences to users, AI is able to keep them motivated and invested into their long-term fitness journey.