FITNESS
AI in Fitness
Here's how artificial intelligence could affect the way you work out in the future BY GISELLE CASTRO-SLOBODA Fitness & nutrition writer with online articles in CNET, Shape and Women’s Health, who enjoys reviewing the latest fitness gadgets and testing out activewear and sneakers, from New York, NY GCASTRO1116
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nce upon a time, artificial intelligence was restricted to the realm of science fiction. Now it's a part of our reality and is making waves in the fitness industry. AI technology isn't particularly new to fitness. It's used in smartwatches, smart mirrors, e.g. Lululemon Studio Mirror, smart home gyms, e.g. Tempo Studio and Peloton systems. Apple is expanding its AI capabilities via Apple Watch software, allowing you to get nutrition, sleep, or workout tips. Fitness equipment companies have generated software to help you detect your reps, your speed, the weight you're lifting and even your form in some cases. With rapid advancements in automated technology, the question is whether AI could eventually replace personal trainers and group fitness programs.
34 I Fall Fitness & Food Issue 2023 I IMPACT MAGAZINE
CUSTOMIZATION OF AI As someone who tests fitness equipment for a living, I have observed how AI has evolved. Fitness apps are adapting AI technology to create a more customized experience, making it easier for you to work out anywhere and giving you a personalized-training feel. In some cases, an app or subscription platform may be more affordable than joining a gym or hiring an in-person trainer. I've experimented with ChatGPT in fitness training and was surprised at how easily it generated a three-day workout program for beginners, separating it into full body, upper body, cardio, and rest days. The warm-up was mainly light cardio-based (jumping jacks) and didn't include mobility or stretching to start or end the workouts, and it lacked rest time between sets, which is important.