05/18/2025
I’ve always loved technology. Not in a “geek” kind of way—but in a “give-me-an-edge” kind of way.
Back in the day, I had one of the first IBM PCjr computers. (If you know what that was, you’re probably also in the second half of life, like me.) Since then—from early laptops to sales automation tools—I’ve believed that tech, used wisely, could be a powerful multiplier.
But only recently—this month, in fact—I’ve felt something shift. For the first time, technology started working for me, not the other way around.
And it happened when fitness met AI.
Where My Journey Meets Actionable Intelligence
Many know my story: I survived open-heart surgery and came back to win Masters Olympic gold on the track. That journey led to the creation of The New Heart for Life Community, a mission to help others live fit, purposeful, and resilient lives.
But now I’ve added something new to my routine—and it’s made all the difference.
AI. Or more accurately: actionable intelligence.
Not just data. Not just tracking. But insights I can use.
How It Started
I’ve worn an Apple Watch for years. It tracks my heart rate, workouts, recovery windows—and occasionally I even take a call on it. I also wear an Oura Ring for sleep data. It’s helpful, but often just confirms what I already know.
Then I found an AI-powered app that integrates the data from both. That’s when things changed.
One recent night says it all.
I had a tough workout the day before, and my app showed I needed light movement to hit my recovery sweet spot. But after dinner and a relaxing movie with my wife, I was still stuck in the yellow zone.
So I grabbed my headlamp and went for a walk. Still not quite there.
My wife smiled and said, “Try the stairs.” Two minutes later… the app lit up green. Recovery zone achieved. I knew I’d sleep better—and I did.
“That night, two flights of stairs became the smartest recovery move I made all week.”
AI Isn’t Just Tracking—It’s Teaching
This isn’t about dashboards or charts. It’s about feedback that nudges me at the right moment. It sees how I’ve trained, how I’ve slept, how I’ve recovered—and gives me meaningful, actionable suggestions.
“This was the first time technology didn’t just track my activity—it helped me make a better decision.”
But here’s something important:
AI didn’t replace how I feel. And it definitely didn’t replace my coach.
Where Actionable Intelligence Meets Human Wisdom
I still check in with my coach. We talk about how I felt before and after sessions. He listens, assesses, and asks the questions AI can’t ask.
“Because fitness isn’t just about data—it’s about human connection.”
It’s not just about numbers. It’s about context. It’s about you knowing you.
“The data didn’t drive me. It reminded me of who I’m becoming.”
AI enhances that. It doesn’t replace it.
Final Thought
This isn’t the future. This is now.
“When AI becomes actionable intelligence, it’s not just artificial. It’s personal. And it’s powerful.”
This is what The New Heart for Life Community is all about. If you're using tech to rethink fitness—or want to explore how—you’re welcome to message me here. I’d love to hear your story.
