What happens when you ask AI to invent a new type of never-before-seen fitness class? National leading gym chain Genesis Health + Fitness decided to put the robots to the test and see what new concepts they could create.
The results? An interesting selection of inspired and futuristic ideas with varying degrees of practicality and effectiveness, according to Genesis Health + Fitness National Fitness Manager and qualified PT for more than 16 years, Tahnee Donkin.
“The harder we pushed ChatGPT, the wilder the ideas seemed to get,” said Tahnee. “There’s so much to take into consideration when finding new ways to work out including how elaborate the set-up of the studio needs to be to accommodate the class, how many people the class will appeal to, how safe it is, and how effective the workout will be in the usual 30-45min timeframe for group classes.”
“I think the robots definitely get points for creativity and thinking outside the box – I love some of the ideas. Whether we’ll see any of these classes in reality any time soon is another story. But in the fitness industry we love thinking big and keeping things fresh – and by tapping into emerging trends, integrating cutting-edge technologies, and embracing holistic approaches to health and wellness, concepts like these could represent a glimpse into the future of fitness.”
Here Tahnee critiques the top three ideas that ChatGPT presented:
Futuristic Fitness Idea #1: "GravityForge"
Description: “GravityForge” is a group fitness class that defies traditional notions of exercise by harnessing the power of anti-gravity technology to create a truly immersive and otherworldly workout experience. Participants are transported into a gravity-defying environment where they can unleash their full potential and push the boundaries of physical fitness like never before.
What it Involves: The class takes place in a specially designed studio equipped with advanced anti-gravity technology, including suspension systems and zero-gravity platforms. Participants are fitted with harnesses and safety gear that allow them to float freely in the air, unencumbered by the constraints of gravity. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants engage in a series of dynamic and fluid movements that combine elements of aerial acrobatics, calisthenics, and functional training.
Fitness professional says: “This would be a lot of fun but the set-up of the space required is elaborate and the risks for the average class-goer would be higher than your average class, simply because there is more that could go wrong. Couple that with a common fear of heights, and you’ve got a class that isn’t for the faint of heart. Gravity already plays an important role in the training methods of 2024 in a much simpler way in the form of bodyweight exercises and resistance training. The extravagant class setup, cost, and risk may outweigh the benefits of this concept.”
Futuristic fitness class #2: "Elemental Fusion"
Description: “Elemental Fusion” merges the elements of nature with cutting-edge technology to create a transformative workout experience unlike anything seen before. Participants are immersed in a multisensory environment where they engage with the primal forces of earth, water, fire, and air, resulting in a dynamic fusion of physical exertion, mental stimulation, and spiritual awakening.
What it Involves: The class takes place in a state-of-the-art studio designed to simulate the natural elements through advanced projection mapping, immersive soundscapes, scents, and responsive environmental effects involving heat, cool, wind, water, and more. Participants are guided through a series of fluid movements and dynamic exercises inspired by the characteristics of each element.
Fitness professional says: “I like this because it requires participants to tap into nature and there are grounding and energising benefits that hugely assist mental health as well as physical. And I love the idea of heightening the sensory experience through added elements like projections and sound as it helps people to get lost in the experience and then you don’t even realise that you’re exercising. If the technology can produce the earth’s natural electric charge, this class could have enormous health benefits that include reducing inflammation and improving mood. You can tap into this concept right now by doing a barefoot workout in nature.”
Futuristic fitness class #3: "Neuroflow"
Description: “NeuroFlow” blends physical exercise with cognitive training and brain stimulation techniques to optimise mental performance, enhance neuroplasticity, and boost overall brain health. Drawing on principles from neuroscience, psychology, and exercise science, NeuroFlow offers a dynamic and engaging workout experience that challenges both body and mind.
What it Involves: The class is divided into three main components: physical exercise, cognitive training, and brain stimulation.
Physical Exercise: Participants engage in a variety of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), strength training, and cardiovascular exercises designed to elevate heart rate, improve muscular strength and endurance, and promote overall physical fitness.
Cognitive Training: Between intervals of physical exercise, participants are presented with cognitive challenges and brain games that target different cognitive functions such as memory, attention, problem-solving, and executive function. These challenges may include puzzles, memory recall tasks, pattern recognition exercises, and mental math problems.
Brain Stimulation: Throughout the class, participants are exposed to non-invasive brain stimulation techniques such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) or audio-visual stimulation (AVS) to enhance neuroplasticity, increase neural connectivity, and optimise brain function. These techniques are administered safely and under the supervision of trained professionals.
Fitness professional says: “This is actually one of my favourites. While exercise does already involve a degree of cognitive effort/stimulation in the form of coordination, timing, and memory, this takes it to the next level and makes a class a great workout for mind and body together. There’s an opportunity to integrate brain-based fitness into this concept, where a series of non-traditional exercises can be integrated to improve cognitive function. According to the World Health Organisation, there are nearly 10 million new cases of dementia every year. Fitness benefits aside, NeuroFlow could have the potential to aid in the prevention and treatment of neurological diseases and disorders and improve the lives of many elderly people.”
What does ChatGPT think of its futuristic fitness ideas?
“As the creator of these innovative fitness class concepts, I am incredibly excited about the potential they hold to revolutionise the fitness industry and transform the way people approach exercise and wellness. Each concept is carefully crafted to offer a unique and immersive workout experience that addresses the diverse needs and interests of participants while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in fitness.”
What do you think? Could these be the fitness classes of the future? To view classes currently available in the real world, visit www.genesisfitness.com.au.
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