This morning, digital fitness company Aaptiv released its new artificial-intelligence-enabled trainer the Aaptiv Coach. The new technology uses a proprietary algorithm to personalize fitness routines and lifestyle tips to each user. 

The coach was designed to give users a daily structure and help them fit workouts into their routines. It will also give users specific Aaptiv workouts that will meet their needs and goal.  

As with many AI applications, the more a consumer uses the app the more it will be able to personalize its advice and encouragement. 

This tool will be offered in addition to the Aaptiv app, which helps a user choose from a library of audio training sessions based on their needs. A membership, which costs $15 per month or $100 per year, gives access to more than 2,500 classes, with more being added weekly.

WHY IT MATTERS 

US adults are falling behind when it comes to meeting physical activity guidelines. In fact, less than 25% of Americans over the age of 18 met the physical activity guidelines for both aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity, according to the CDC. That number is higher for just aerobic activity at 53%. Many are looking to technology as a way to solve this problem, with scores of wellness, fitness and nutrition apps coming onto the market. 

WHAT'S THE TREND

Last summer Aaptiv closed a $23 million Series C funding round, which included participation from big names including the Amazon Alexa Fund, Millenium Technology Value Partners, Disney, Warner Music Group, NWS Holding and Bose Corporation. 

At the time the company said it would use the funding for new technological innovation and getting the word out to new customers. 

Fitness coaches are plentiful in the digital health market. Freeletics, which offers a number of fitness training and coaching apps is one of the main competitors in the space. Amsterdam-based Virtuagym and London-based Fiit are also focused on personal fitness coaching. 

Big name companies are also getting in the game. For example, last year wearable giant Fitbit acquired health coaching app Twine. 

ON THE RECORD 

“Aaptiv is not a content company. Aaptiv is not a fitness company. We’re a digital health company focused on helping our members achieve their goals. From day one we’ve been passionate about helping members live a healthier life and we always knew content was just one piece of what we would be able to offer,” Aaptiv Founder and CEO Ethan Agarwal, said in a statement. “We’re excited to combine cutting-edge technology that we’ve been building for years with the world-class workouts we’re known for to bring personalized guidance to everyone. Our ultimate goal is to help everyone achieve their health goals and the best way to do that is with Aaptiv Coach.”