11 People Share Their Experiences Using AI for Fitness
11 people share: The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in fitness routines has sparked a range of opinions and experiences. While some individuals find AI helpful for tailoring workout programs and tracking progress, others remain skeptical or avoid it altogether. This article presents insights from 11 people who share how they incorporate AI into their fitness journeys, highlighting both benefits and concerns.
Varied Trust and Usage of AI in Fitness
AI technology is widely used, with 62% of people in the US and 69% in the UK regularly engaging with it. However, trust in AI remains low. In the US, only 26% of people hold a positive view of AI, and in the UK, 78% express worries about its potential negative outcomes. These mixed feelings extend to fitness applications of AI, where users report a spectrum of experiences.
Dr. Carol Garber, a professor of movement science and education at Columbia University, cautions that AI-generated fitness programs can be flawed. She emphasizes that AI often relies on general internet information and may confidently provide incorrect advice, which could lead to injuries. She recommends consulting certified exercise professionals when possible and verifying AI guidance with credible sources.
Personal Experiences with AI in Fitness
- Jose, 60, Netherlands: After struggling to maintain a steady routine, Jose used AI to create a weekly workout plan that includes weight lifting and swimming. Two months later, he has successfully stuck to his routine for the first time in years.
- Patrick McCann, 62, New Zealand: A retired motorcycle racer, Patrick used AI to design a strength training program aimed at increasing his bench press. Despite using AI at work, he remains skeptical about the overall impact of technology and prefers a simpler past.
- Debbie McGowan, 56, West Lancashire: Debbie uses AI to develop strength training programs, check exercise form, and manage injuries. She values AI as a tool but warns it can be confidently wrong and compares it to an inexperienced intern.
- Dave, 62, France: A former wine professional, Dave credits AI with helping him lose weight through customized spinning workouts and dietary advice. He appreciates AI’s speed, availability, and ability to eliminate trial and error.
- Drew Long, 46, Edinburgh: Drew is cautious about AI, finding it overrated in some areas but useful for straightforward tasks. He used AI to get tailored workout and diet suggestions after learning about strength training through online videos.
- Gerarda Cronin, 68, British Columbia: Gerarda combines AI-driven swim workouts from an app with feedback from her Masters club coaches. She appreciates the app’s personalized coaching texts and finds the two approaches complementary.
- Chris Morrell, 49, Surrey: Chris uses AI as a personal trainer, assistant, and doctor by feeding it information about longevity and injuries. The AI helps him plan diverse exercises appropriate for his age and condition.
- Peter Saddon, 56, Yeovil: Peter uses AI to build gym programs, set weight targets, manage injuries, and correct technique. He finds it useful but reminds users that AI is not infallible and occasionally reveals its limitations.
- Tom Davison, 30, Netherlands: Tom created a custom app that uses AI to suggest workouts, schedule sessions, time exercises, and provide nutritional advice. The app helps him and his girlfriend stay accountable and track progress.
- David Cooper, 61, France: A former marathon runner turned cyclist, David uses AI to analyze ride data and discuss training sessions. He combines AI feedback with coaching from a human trainer and is impressed by AI’s knowledge of training principles.
- Susan Mulhall, 76, Washington DC: Susan does not use AI and expresses strong dislike for AI and phone use in the gym, citing irritation, isolation, and conflict as reasons for her stance.
Balancing AI Benefits and Limitations
The experiences shared by these individuals illustrate that AI can be a valuable fitness tool when used thoughtfully. It offers personalized workout plans, progress tracking, and injury management support. However, users also emphasize the importance of human expertise and caution against relying solely on AI, given its potential for errors.
Overall, the integration of AI in fitness routines reflects a balance between embracing technological assistance and maintaining critical awareness of its limitations.