A computer fitness coach might sound something like this: “Hello, Julie.
“Your goal last time we ‘talked’ was to do 30 minutes per day of brisk walking five days per week. Were you able to reach this goal? If yes, press 1; if no, press 2.”
Let’s say it was a crazy-busy week. I press 2, or “no,” on my cellphone. My coach doesn’t seem too upset.
“What kind of barriers got in your way?” she asks in a friendly voice. “If illness, press 1; if weather, press 2.”
At this point, I’d probably be so irritated that I’d hang up, missing out on recorded advice about how to find time to work out.
But a recent Stanford study found that these computer-generated phone calls do have some value: They can be an effective, low-cost way to get older, inactive adults exercising.
Although most study participants thought they’d hate them, the automated calls worked almost as well as calls from a person, a finding that surprised researchers and should alarm fitness trainers.
It is, perhaps, a sign of the times that people are more comfortable with a computer voice than a real person who can listen and thoughtfully respond. Technology doesn’t just help us disconnect our brains from our bodies during workouts; it allows us to cut ourselves off from others.
For many beginners, establishing an exercise routine can be a daunting, intimidating and even emotional experience. The researchers found that some people prefer working with a computer because they don’t have to worry about letting anyone down. Those lacking confidence generally did better overall when they didn’t have to talk to a human.
