Artificially intelligent Pilates
I've been a bit short of blog ideas recently, so I decided to enlist some help. ChatGPT, an online "chatbot" that responds to natural language queries in a conversational manner, was a hot topic recently so I decided to give it a try. At the very least it would make a hash of the job, I thought, and come up with some computer-generated gibberish that I could mock for comic effect. When I asked ChatGPT to explain Pilates it said:
"Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise that focuses on developing strength, flexibility, balance, and control. It was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, and it has become popular in recent years as a way to improve overall fitness and reduce stress. Pilates exercises typically involve precise movements that target specific muscle groups, with an emphasis on core strength. The exercises are often done on a mat or with specialized equipment. Pilates is often used as a rehabilitation tool for individuals recovering from injuries or surgeries. It can also be used as a complement to other forms of exercise, such as running, cycling, or weightlifting. One of the unique aspects of Pilates is its emphasis on breathing. Practitioners are instructed to breathe deeply and rhythmically throughout the exercises, which can help improve relaxation and focus. Overall, Pilates is a versatile and effective form of exercise that can benefit people of all fitness levels and abilities. It can help improve posture, increase flexibility, and reduce the risk of injury, making it a valuable addition to any fitness routine." Worryingly good, I thought (if we ignore the American spellings and Oxford commas), and started to wonder if I would make it to retirement before artificial intelligence puts me out of a job. Even worse, ChatGPT was diplomatic about Pilates versus yoga and steadfastly refused to admit who was the best Pilates teacher in London. I did, however, take heart when I asked an artificial intelligence picture generator to show me what Pilates taught by ChatGPT might look like:
So if you don't want to end up looking like that, why not join me, probably one of the last-ever human Pilates teachers, at an online class before the robots rise up and enslave us all?