Everyday runners and cyclists are using AI chatbots as training coaches

In short: More everyday athletes are using AI chatbots and apps to get low cost, personalized training plans that adapt to their fitness and recovery.

What's going on

Recreational runners, cyclists, and triathletes are increasingly asking AI tools like ChatGPT and apps such as Athletica.ai for training advice. Instead of hiring a human coach, they type in their goal, like finishing a half marathon, plus details like available time, current pace, and what equipment they have. The chatbot then returns a structured plan, often in plain language, like a weekly schedule of runs or rides.

Some tools also connect to wearables, like a fitness watch or a WHOOP band, and use the data to adjust training day by day. Wearables track things like heart rate and sleep, which can be used to estimate recovery (how ready your body is for hard exercise). In practice, this can mean getting a lighter workout on a “yellow” recovery day, and a harder session when the data suggests you are ready.

This is still not the default approach for most people, but it is growing. One estimate in the report said about 25% of athletes who follow structured training plans are using AI generated plans. People often use these tools because they are cheap or free, always available, and can provide motivation and reminders, like a coach who answers texts at any hour.

What to watch

AI plans can be solid for basic training, but they are not fully hands off. Users may need to correct the plan when they have an injury, unusual pain, or limited equipment, and they should be careful about what personal health data they share. For rehab and more complex issues, a qualified human professional may still be the safer option.

Source: NYTimes