Fitness

How AI is changing the way we approach health and fitness

Published

1 year ago

July 28, 2024

How AI is changing the way we approach health and fitness

Ever hit a wall with your fitness routine, feeling it’s not quite filling your needs? Or are you among those who wheel their carts down the supermarket aisles, clueless about meal planning for your dietary needs? The good news is, Artificial Intelligence or AI is fitting into your sneakers to transform health and fitness.

AI’s role in different fields

AI is changing the rules of the game in health and fitness. The central premise of AI lies in computer systems performing tasks that usually require human intelligence.

Think learning, reasoning, decision-making — the whole nine yards. AI scans enormous amounts of data, identifies patterns, and makes intelligent decisions based on these findings.

Traditional health and fitness methods often adopt a generic approach, a square peg for all round holes. But AI flips this on its head, providing custom-fit solutions tailored to individual needs, preferences, and goals.

The result? Fitness routines that hit the spot, keeping it exciting and productive.

AI as a workout buddy and personal trainer

Sure, an exercise partner can be a fantastic motivator. They can push you to go that extra mile and hold you accountable for your fitness goals.

However, some of us find tranquility and focus in a solo jog, where we can listen to our thoughts or enjoy a podcast.

AI offers a solution to this dilemma. Virtual trainers have your back, ensuring your planks and sprints are up to the mark with real-time feedback and personalized routines. They can adapt to your progress, offering tailored advice that evolves with your fitness level.

The age of expert fitness guidance for everyone is here, thanks to these digital comrades, making high-quality training accessible anytime, anywhere.

Much like when choosing a human personal trainer, quality is key. Fortunately, high quality options are already out there.

If you’re on an iPhone, FitnessAI gives you the power of a personal trainer in your pocket for a fraction of the cost.

Android users fear not, BodBot and Future are good options too.

AI for health metrics

AI serves beyond your workout needs; it’s an all-day health sentinel. AI-enabled wearables like smartwatches and fitness trackers keep an eagle eye on your health metrics, tracking everything from your pulse to your sleep quality.

They can monitor your heart rate during intense exercises. They analyze your daily activity levels and can even detect irregularities in your heartbeat.

These devices offer insights into your sleep patterns, helping you understand and improve your sleep quality.

Predictive analysis with AI

One ace that AI holds up its sleeve is predictive health analysis. Picture a crystal ball that can spot potential health issues before they escalate.

AI’s data analysis plays this role, predicting health problems like diabetes, heart disease, or sleep disorders.

AI continuously monitors health metrics. It analyzes patterns in large datasets that allows it to identify subtle signs of impending issues. These signs might go unnoticed by human eyes.

So, Early detection? Check. Timely intervention? Check.

This not only helps in managing diseases more effectively but also in tailoring personalized healthcare plans, ultimately improving patient outcomes and enhancing quality of life.

Diet and nutrition with AI help

Crave a personal nutritionist but can’t stomach the cost? AI bridges this gap with personalized nutrition plans. Based on your dietary needs, preferences, and health goals, AI brews up tailor-made meal plans just for you.

These plans take into account a variety of factors such as allergies, nutritional deficiencies, and even your daily activity level.

With these AI-assisted apps, you can easily track your meals. They provide recommendations for healthier food choices. You can even receive reminders to stay hydrated.

AI for mental health care

The connection between stress management and overall health is rock solid. Chronic stress can lead to numerous health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders.

From custom meditation plans that guide you through calming exercises, to virtual therapists that offer 24/7 support, AI provides a wealth of resources. These tools are invaluable for those battling stress or mental health challenges.

These advanced tools help individuals develop coping strategies, track their progress, and ultimately improve their well-being.

Fitness, though often a solo journey, thrives on community and support. AI steps in here, connecting folks with fellow fitness enthusiasts through online platforms and social media.

These AI-crafted connections foster a sense of belonging and motivation, encouraging individuals to share triumphs, trials, and tips. The result? A fortified commitment to health and well-being.

AI’s expanding role in fitness and health

The role of AI in the fitness landscape is set for a growth spurt. Future promises include virtual reality workouts and augmented reality coaching, all set to revolutionize our fitness experiences.

With AI’s continued integration, we can anticipate a more personalized approach to health management, making fitness more accessible, enjoyable, and long-lasting for all.

AI dons many hats – a personal fitness trainer, health monitor, diet strategist, and mental health ally. As we stride into the future, welcoming us is the prospect of better health and contentment.

AI continues to evolve and integrate further into our healthcare systems. So, are you ready to let AI navigate you towards a healthier life?

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Fitness

You can now exercise with Dunkin’ weighted fitness bangles

Published

4 minutes ago

January 13, 2026

Press Room

You can now exercise with Dunkin’ weighted fitness bangles

Dunkin’ has released a limited-edition set of weighted bangles on Tuesday, Jan. 12 through a collaboration with fitness accessory brand Bala, coinciding with the nationwide launch of its new Protein Milk option.

The 2-pound weighted bangles are available exclusively at ShopBala.com/dunkin-bala-bangles for $65 while supplies last. The wearable weights, which can be worn on arms or legs, feature Dunkin’s signature pink-and-orange color scheme and add resistance to walks, stretches, and everyday movement.

The bangles coordinate with Dunkin’s existing Dunk N’ Pump Collection.

Alongside the fitness accessory launch, Dunkin’ introduced Protein Milk as a new beverage addition available at locations nationwide. Customers can add 15 grams of protein to any medium drink that includes a milk or non-dairy base.

The coffee chain rolled out several protein-focused beverages featuring the new Protein Milk, including Megan’s Mango and Strawberry Protein Refreshers, a Caramel Chocolate Iced Protein Latte, and an Almond Iced Protein Matcha Latte.

Fitness

Just 10 Minutes of Exercise May Help Slow Cancer Growth, New Study Suggests – Muscle & Fitness

Published

12 hours ago

January 13, 2026

Press Room

Just 10 Minutes of Exercise May Help Slow Cancer Growth, New Study Suggests – Muscle & Fitness

Exercise has long been known for its muscle building, heart saving, and mind stimulating benefits, but more and more research is beginning to shed light on how being active can inhibit the spread of cancer, with a new study suggesting that just 10 minutes of exercise can switch off the signals that lead to cancer growth. The study, undertaken by researchers at England’s Newcastle University and published by the JAMA Network, showed that even short burst of energetic exercise can trigger quick molecular changes within the bloodstream that can halt cancer growth and accelerate DNA repair.

How Was the Study Carried Out?

30 overweight or obese male and female volunteers aged between 50 and 78 (risk factors associated with cancer) who were otherwise healthy, were asked to complete cycling sessions for around ten minutes. Following this activity, blood samples were then taken to measure 249 different proteins, and how the intervention of exercise may have affected these proteins.

Does Exercise Lower Cancer Risk Long-Term?

The scientists discovered that 13 proteins increased after this exercise, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), a protein that is associated with DNA and damaged cell repair. “These results suggest that exercise doesn’t just benefit healthy tissues, it may also create a more hostile environment for cancer cells to grow,” said Dr. Samuel Orange, who is a Clinical Exercise Physiologist. “… it sends powerful signals through the bloodstream that can directly influence thousands of genes in cancer cells”

It is estimated that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of bowel cancer by around 20 percent. “It’s an exciting insight because it opens the door to find ways that mimic or augment the biological effects of exercise, potentially improving cancer treatment and, crucially, patient outcomes,” added Orange. “In the future, these insights could lead to new therapies that imitate the beneficial effects of exercise on how cells repair damaged DNA and use fuel for energy.”

The study also found that exercise supercharged activity in genes that support mitochondrial energy metabolism, enabling calls to use oxygen more efficiently, while genes that encourage rapid cell growth were essentially switched off, reducing the aggressiveness of cancer cells. “Even a single workout can make a difference,” commented Orange. “One bout of exercise, lasting just 10 minutes, sends powerful signals to the body. It’s a reminder that every step, every session, counts when it comes to doing your best to protect your health.”

Fitness

You Can Keep Your Health And Fitness Resolutions Without Overdoing It

Published

1 day ago

January 12, 2026

Press Room

You Can Keep Your Health And Fitness Resolutions Without Overdoing It

As hopeful as New Year’s Resolutions feel when you’re making them, it can be hard to keep momentum when you’re faced with dark January days, a 5-week month and, well, the state of the world right now.

If this is ringing some familiar bells, you’re not alone. Lots of us struggle to keep going with resolutions and in fact, the second Friday of January is actually dubbed Quitter’s Day as that’s when many of us slip and give up our resolutions.

However, when it comes to health and fitness, one NHS doctor urges that focusing on small wins and having a long-term goal of understanding your body and health can be a lot more beneficial.

You don’t have to do it all at once

Dr Reem Hasan, Chief Medical Officer at Vista Health and NHS GP says: “The best health goals are the ones you can live with, small actions that build momentum and become part of your routine. Sustainable change is what truly transforms health.”

This means you don’t have to race to join your local gym, have a 12-step fitness routine and unrealistic goals that will inevitably burn you out and put you off fitness all together.

Dr Hasan advises taking the three following steps when it comes to health and fitness:

Prioritise movement over perfection

Instead of committing to an intense daily workout, start with something manageable like a short walk during your lunch break, stretching before bed, or taking the stairs instead of the lift.

It’s still January, you still deserve to take your time.

Dr Hasan adds: “These small bursts of activity add up and make movement part of your lifestyle rather than a short-term resolution.”

Add before you restrict

If you’re looking to make your diet healthier, Dr Hasan urgess that restriction isn’t the way forward, saying: “Rather than cutting out foods, focus on adding nutritious options like an extra portion of fruit or vegetables each day, or swapping one processed snack for a whole food alternative.

“This positive approach supports your health without triggering feelings of guilt or deprivation.”

Protect your rest

It is something that we take for granted but actually, good sleep hygiene is essential for our day-to-day wellbeing.

Dr Hasan says: “Sleep is one of the most powerful tools for maintaining health. Set a realistic bedtime, avoid screens for at least 30 minutes before sleep, and create a calm evening routine. Rested bodies and minds make better decisions and sustain energy for other healthy habits.

“When you approach change this way, gently and consistently, you are more likely to build habits that last all year. You will feel stronger, more balanced, and may even inspire those around you to take their own small steps toward better health.”