Technology’s impact on our lives continues to grow each year. In the exercise industry we have seen a significant impact ranging from wearable technologies tracking fitness data to numerous apps and online programs for any number of fitness and health goals. Two of the main limitations of these technologies include a lack of direct supervision by a educated and trained fitness professional, as well as, the lack of customization for each participant’s health, symptoms, experience, fitness goals, and changing needs.
A recent randomized controlled trial compared the impact of a strengthening program conducted in three distinct modes (Gavanda et al. J Strength Conditioning Research. 2025). 112 participants with at least one were randomized to one of three exercise groups: supervised training with a certified coach, an app guided training program, and a PDF of the exercises. Each group performed the same exercise program which differed only in the amount of supervision and guidance offered. Participants performed multi joint strength training exercises 3 days a week for 10 weeks.
As expected the supervised group was the best for body composition, strength, exercise adherence, participant self reported satisfaction and well being. The app and self directed workouts with the PDF also showed improvements, but to a smaller extent compared to the supervised program.
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