Starting Level
Starting level is the difficulty the app assigns before the user has built trust with the plan.
- Example: beginner strength sessions with lower volume and simple movements
- Check: confirm the first week matches real experience
- Limit: self-reported level can be inaccurate
Instruction Quality
Instruction quality is the clarity of demos, setup notes, cues, and warnings that help users understand an exercise.
- Example: showing how to set up a hinge before adding load
- Check: review the explanation before starting the set
- Limit: video instruction cannot fully correct every user
Progression Pace
Progression pace is how quickly the app increases difficulty, volume, intensity, or complexity.
- Example: adding one set after several completed sessions instead of doubling workload
- Check: look for gradual changes and recovery space
- Limit: automatic progression may not reflect fatigue or pain
Modification Path
A modification path gives easier, lower-impact, or equipment-friendly alternatives when the assigned movement is not a good fit.
- Example: offering an elevated push-up before a floor push-up
- Check: see whether easier versions are easy to find
- Limit: some users need professional guidance beyond app options
Recovery Signals
Recovery signals are the app's ways of responding to soreness, fatigue, missed sessions, or low readiness.
- Example: suggesting a lighter session after poor recovery
- Check: review what happens after a skipped or difficult workout
- Limit: readiness scores are estimates, not medical clearance
Claim Boundaries
Claim boundaries are the limits an app places around results, safety, injury prevention, and health guidance.
- Example: advising users to seek qualified help for pain or medical concerns
- Check: watch for absolute promises
- Limit: clear warnings do not make every workout appropriate