Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing personal training, bringing efficiency and innovation to fitness coaching. However, in an industry where personalized guidance is crucial, how can coaches integrate AI without losing the human touch? Kandace Dickson, Chief Marketing Officer at CoachRx & OPEX Fitness, shares her perspective on how trainers can effectively incorporate AI while maintaining the personal connection that sets them apart in a conversation with Athletech News.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Do you find some coaches hesitant to embrace AI?
Kandace: Yes, many coaches worry that AI might replace their roles or diminish the personal element they bring to their services. There’s also concern that AI might make their coaching feel too impersonal or fail to reflect their unique coaching style.
What would you say to coaches with these concerns?
Kandace: I see AI as a tool to complement, not replace, human coaches. It can handle repetitive tasks, freeing up time for coaches to focus on building strong client relationships and delivering tailored guidance. Instead of taking away from the coaching experience, AI enhances efficiency, allowing trainers to offer even more personalized and impactful programs.
How do AI tools like RxBot streamline tasks for coaches?
Kandace: RxBot, our AI Coaching Assistant, automates time-consuming tasks such as program design. It quickly generates workout plans tailored to a client’s data, goals, and fitness level, adjusting them based on feedback. This reduces the time spent on program creation and allows coaches to focus on high-value activities like client interaction and business growth.
Additionally, RxBot drafts client communication analyzes progress data, and serves as a knowledge base, offering solutions grounded in 25 years of OPEX Fitness education. It simplifies processes for coaches, making it easier to deliver well-rounded, customized fitness plans.
What other advantages does AI bring to fitness coaching?
Kandace: AI offers unparalleled personalization by processing large amounts of data quickly, delivering recommendations that align with a coach’s style. It also tracks client adherence, automates reminders, and enhances communication, helping coaches manage larger client bases without compromising quality. Better client adherence leads to improved results, fostering stronger retention and referrals. Additionally, AI supports ongoing education, helping coaches stay sharp and informed.
How does adopting AI help coaches remain competitive?
Kandace: In today’s tech-driven world, coaches who leverage AI can provide more data-driven, sophisticated services. They can handle more clients efficiently, while still offering personalized insights and 24/7 support that modern clients expect. AI gives coaches a competitive edge by enhancing the quality and scope of services they offer.
What benefits do clients receive when their coach integrates AI?
Kandace: AI allows coaches to offer a broader range of services and resources, potentially at a lower cost due to increased efficiency. On the other hand, it also enables coaches to deliver more premium, high-touch services, depending on their pricing model. Either way, clients benefit from more personalized, data-driven coaching.
What advice do you have for coaches new to AI?
Kandace: Here are some steps to get started:
- Educate yourself. Explore free resources, like our AI Coaching Hub, to understand how AI can support fitness coaching. Start by using AI for one aspect of your business, such as program design or client check-ins.
- Use pre-built solutions. Platforms like CoachRx offer AI tools designed for fitness coaches, making the transition easier.
- Experiment with RxBot. Test it using dummy data to explore its capabilities before integrating it with real clients.
- Stay updated. AI is evolving rapidly, so regularly revisit resources and stay informed on the latest developments.
- Network. Connect with other coaches who have adopted AI to share best practices.
- Take our free mini-course. Learn from common mistakes coaches make when using AI and how to fix them.
Remember, AI should enhance your coaching abilities, not replace your unique strengths as a coach. It’s meant to empower you to deliver even better, more personalized services.
