On Technology

In the world that has been reshaped by COVID-19, there has been a boon in the home workout/fitness economy. A lot of this is centered around technology and using apps with “coaches”. This is a great option for many people, and anything that gets more people working out is a huge positive.

That said, there is something lost in these apps, generic fitness trackers, and virtual fitness classes. They target the average, and can miss providing a valuable experience for their clients over time. They can be a great entry point.

But, as the world moves forward and people spend more time outside, with friends and family, traveling, how can these apps provide a personalized and individualized approach? They are no substitute for having an experienced coach who has the ability to adapt a fitness regimen or training plan to people’s lives.

This approach takes into account not only your goals but also the other demands on your life. Those demands may be family, work, social, school, or any combination of those. The reality is that most people aren’t “average” and even the best apps available only provide a piece of the puzzle. Having a coach who is able to see the big picture and provide you with direction (and accountability) in pursuing your goals is invaluable.

One of those goals should be getting to know your body well. Learning when you are recovered and when you are tired. Plenty of research suggests that elite athletes are better off listening to the subjective feedback of their bodies rather than the objective feedback of HRV (heart rate variability) data, heart rate data, etc. Having a strong coach can help fine tune this skill and prepare people to understand what to do, even when the path forward may seem a little muddy.