APTIMA INC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N172-132

Description

One-size-fits-all approaches to physical fitness are characterized by extreme limitations. When not individually-tailored, workouts can be ineffective or worse: so strenuous that they lead to injuries. Advances in wearable sensors allow individuals to capture personalized data related to their own physical fitness (e.g., heart rate, step count). Unfortunately, with such an abundance of physiological and biometric data, it is difficult to understand how to best use sensor outputs when planning and updating ones own physical fitness program. Aptima will employ two complementary modeling approaches in a novel technology-based alternative to one-size-fits-all fitness program design - automated state modeling and adaptive training algorithms. The Physical Readiness Program (PREP) will customize existing fitness training plans based on assessments from an individuals sensor data and contextual inputs. PREP will collect data continuously and in real-time through sensor-agnostic models while also taking into account context through user-provided inputs (e.g., soreness, sleep). Evaluations of trainee sensor data will guide training program adaptations at both the micro and macro level. As such, training will be optimized according to a holistic interpretation of the individuals statebased on exercise and other observed activities as well as self-reports of well-being.