Runners have been warned that they are putting themselves at risk if they use ‘dangerous’ training plans given by AI chatbots.
Personal trainers have been reported criticising fitness apps that use ChatGPT or other AI models as they could be giving inaccurate information that could harm them.
Apps like Runna use AI to generate workouts and has been slated alongside ChatGPT on social media by users over its ‘cookie-cutter training plans’.
One personal trainer, Chris Beavers, told a national newspaper that these AI-generated plans will be based off what the LLM thinks is the optimal routine, without providing accurate tailoring to the individual runner.
As an example, the AI might suggest a high-intensity routine which may not suit a runner who would need periods of rest.
Following these routines could then cause a runner to injure themselves while running and impede their running goal.
Mr Beavers added that relying solely on AI removes a runner from any human connection that can provide additional support in a way that technology can’t, as well as providing a stronger sense of accountability.
Personal trainer Nick Berners-Price similarly echoed these concerns, adding that amateur runners were particularly at risk as their bio-mechanics will not be correctly addressed without analysis from a sports lab.
He was reported saying: ‘Unless you’re revisiting the AI, constantly feeding it new parameters, then I don’t really see how it improves on a one-size-fits-all programme.’
Nutritionist Ella Rauen-Prestes Butler said that ChatGPT can also provide incorrect diets and meal plans for runners that could negatively affect their performance.
One frequent issue was runners being told to ‘carb up’ too much – which can then affect their blood sugar.
‘AI can be very dangerous … people used to refer to Dr Google but now it’s Dr ChatGPT,’ she reportedly said.
However, some countered the narrative that these models are ‘dangerous’ but are instead just ‘incomplete’.
Runna has previously said: ‘[Our] plans are designed by experienced coaches using proven training principles.
‘An algorithm then tailors and adapts those coach-designed plans to each runner based on progress, feedback and real-world performance.
‘Running, especially long-distance running, is a high-impact sport and injury risk can never be eliminated entirely.
‘Injury risk is influenced by numerous factors including sleep, nutrition, stress, prior injuries and training outside a plan.’
ChatGPT has been contacted for comment.
