In the fitness world, there are smartwatches and smart scales. Unfortunately, over 80% of adolescents and 27% of adults are not meeting the World Health Organization’s recommended levels of physical activity. Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing every aspect of our lives. In the world of fitness, the future will be less about devices that count your steps and more about software that can help you break a sweat and enhance your longevity.
AI and the World of Fitness
In this article, we will explain:
- The rise of AI in fitness
- Concerns of data privacy
- The risk of AI leading to body dysmorphia
Personalized wellness
While there’s a preconception that AI fitness offerings are limited to individual data collection, such as heart rate and sleep patterns, it’s about much more than that. For one, the collection of this data allows for practitioners and trainers to make informed decisions, minimizing the risk of injuries and enhancing overall effectiveness.
“AI, with its ability to process vast amounts of data and adapt in real time, can provide personalized wellness experiences that were once unimaginable,” explains Ulaysha Narandas, a physiotherapist and founder of MoveSmart, a company offering personalized lifestyle solutions using state-of-the-art technology to provide increased strength, endurance, and balance for better health.
“AI algorithms can analyze historical workout data to predict future performance, identify areas for improvement, and help users set realistic goals. This not only boosts motivation, but also ensures steady progress,” she says.
Technogym, a wellness company offering gym equipment and programs, is also incorporating AI, using software that offers a holistic view of your fitness journey.
“The MyWellness CRM Platform is able to integrate our ecosystem of machines and group-based training experiences with multiple touchpoints, including mobile phones, third-party devices and activity trackers, to provide a 360-degree customer profile and training experience,” says Tony Payne, CEO of Technogym Southern Africa.
As a result, a client’s training program can be tailored to their specific needs, with added assistance from either an AI coach and tools, or a dedicated trainer, Payne adds.
But beyond enhancing your workout, AI can also be used to create personalized meal plans, track nutrient intake, suggest adjustments and optimal rest periods. AI can even predict potential health risks in your fitness journey, helping you make informed decisions to avoid setbacks, Narandas says.
Is AI worth my data?
As AI is heavily data-driven, some have concerns about how much of their privacy they’re sacrificing for a fitter life.
“AI relies on a wealth of personal data to deliver personalized exercise solutions, and the handling of this data must be transparent and secure,” says Narandas. “It’s the responsibility of stakeholders to ensure the safe and ethical use of data.”
She expects the fitness industry to work to adapt to new regulations and ethical standards, alongside the growth of AI. In doing so, they’ll ensure that AI’s role in your longevity journey doesn’t compromise user safety and privacy.
Artificial dysmorphia when using AI
But while AI may be positioned as the future of self-improvement, with higher rates of depression and body dysmorphia linked to the use of social media, you have to wonder how this latest technological advancement may affect self-perception.
“In some ways, AI and technology, including image-editing software and social-media platforms, can indeed play a role in shaping consumers’ perceptions and amplify insecurities,” admits Narandas.
She emphasizes, however, that body dysmorphia is a complex mental-health issue, and you should always seek professional help and support.
But the personalization of exercise routines, enabled by AI, serves to promote balance and sustainable goals, rather than unrealistic expectations, she believes.
Payne agrees. “The programming and the AI algorithms are developed in such a way that they actually reduce the risk of incorrect training or expectations.”
New workout buddy?
In our digital world, it’ll soon be difficult to make a health-related decision without assistance from AI. But AI isn’t there to replace how we do things – rather, it aims to cultivate a better relationship between you and your health.
“AI will foster collaboration between medical professionals and technology developers, leading to more effective training programs and a better understanding of individual health needs,” says Narandas.
We’re likely to see an increase in the capability of wearable devices, aimed at monitoring more data, such as heart rate variability, sleep, stress scores, continuous glucose monitoring, in addition to DNA and genomics, Payne adds.
“This, combined with great goal-setting and program design, will enable a much more effective form of precision training and results.”
