2024 and beyond could prove to be big years for the role of AI in fitness. AI is evolving and developing at an incredible pace - with larger datasets, more analytical power, and improved hardware technology. Here at Sency, we truly believe that the future of fitness apps will involve smart integration of AI technology. This will complement traditional approaches to deliver unrivalled user experiences.
This blog analyzes and discusses upcoming trends in fitness apps, with a focus on the transformative role of AI.
The incorporation of AI into wellness and fitness apps can take many forms, from hyper-personalized fitness plans and AI-powered workouts to wearable technology integration and virtual fitness classes. The possibilities are endless, and we feel we’re only scratching the surface of what could be some of the biggest trends for AI in fitness apps.
Specifically, AI-powered workouts could fill the gap for users when they are not with their coach or personal trainer, allowing effective training at any time. When combined with wearable tech, key performance milestones can be tracked and adjusted in real time, while AI motion capture can guide form and injury prevention.
Taking user data, both individually and part of huge datasets, fitness apps can offer hyper-personalized workouts that offer maximum efficacy to hit your goals. Whether it’s weight loss, muscle gain, or improved endurance, AI-powered workouts can provide effective coaching for athletes of all levels. What’s more, customer retention is higher when users see and feel results, with most reporting it as the most important factor for sticking with an app.
AI motion capture can be like having a personal trainer in the room with you. By monitoring your movement in real time, fitness apps can provide form correction and feedback to improve results. Similarly, technology can alert the user to potential injuries and strains which can further derail training.
At Sency, our markerless AI motion capture uses a phone’s camera to precisely track a wide range of movements that are analyzed via our Motion Operation System (M-OS) to provide personalized, accurate insights for the user.
When coupled with augmented and virtual reality technology, AI in fitness has the potential to deliver truly immersive experiences that attract and then keep users engaged. Products such as Zwift are well-established in cycling, providing effective training and competitive features that keep riders entertained. However, utilising VR headsets could put riders into the space and provide an extra level of immersion, especially when combined with wearables like heart rate monitors or smartwatches.
Similarly, virtual PTs or remote trainers could take workouts to the next level, combining virtual fitness classes with personalized training plans. For gym or sports club owners, incorporating AI into their equipment can provide real time equipment monitoring that ensures machines receive maintenance before breaking.
Mental health is physical health, and innovative fitness app developers are beginning to understand that combining both into the same app can help users. Using personalized data, fitness tracking, and nutrition and health monitoring, apps can provide a holistic offering to the end user, using the power of AI.
For example, plenty of apps can schedule workouts that fit around your schedule and encourage you to hit your goals. However, they could also offer wellness services like meditation and journaling, prompt you to book massages and recovery sessions, or even schedule appointments with trainers.
Everyone should have the ability to focus on their fitness feeling safe, supported and welcome. Many people shy away from gyms and sports clubs for fear of being judged, mental or physical health conditions, or a lack of confidence. Incorporating AI in fitness can encourage everybody to participate, wherever they are.
Personalized AI fitness plans that account for a person’s physical limitations can be created, or virtual fitness classes can encourage participation in the home, garden, or office. Similarly, those with mental health issues like anxiety or depression, who find gyms overwhelming, can take part in a safe space.
Data privacy and security are growing concerns for users of many services, especially fitness tech which can hold large amounts of personal data. To allay these fears, app developers must develop strong, demonstrable safeguards against data theft. The future of fitness apps depends on it.
Apps that incorporate AI fitness tech must ensure they anonymize all data that feeds into algorithms. At the same time, location-tracking data must be encrypted and securely stored.
The role of AI in fitness is only going to grow, with new products and services that harness its power appearing every day. In a competitive industry, attracting and retaining customers is essential. Those that can provide a holistic approach, keep users engaged and deliver results are most likely to thrive. To find out how you can incorporate Sency’s AI motion capture into your service, don’t hesitate to contact us.