ELVTR
Embodied AI: GEM
Making the gym a less intimidating space for older gym members with the help of Augmented Reality and a friendly, floating kettlebell.
Tools & Resources: Unity, Figma, Anything World, ChatGPT, Midjourney, YouTube
THE BRIEF
I enrolled in an AR & VR Design course with ELVTR. My first assignment was to create a proof of concept for an Embodied AI that explains the physical-digital world, I honed in on a relatable scenario: going to the gym.
Research shows that people who strength train live longer, and as people get older doctors recommend swapping bike bells for dumbbells. But the gym can be an intimidating place, which deters people from going - potentially at the risk of jeopardising their long-term health.
THE SOLUTION
I decided that an embodied AI could be a great tool to help new and nervous gym members to feel confident, capable, and in control of their health. With their phones (or eventually AR specs), members can easily navigate the gym and watch demos to understand how to use specific equipment.
They can also interact with the AI by asking training-specific questions and using it to track their progress over time.
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
The character for the Embodied AI is GEM, a cartoon kettlebell. GEM is purposely intended to feel friendly and non-threatening. Initially GEM went through different iterations from humanoid to talking bicep.
However, the kettlebell is not only a connection to strength training but a perfect canvas for a friendly, expressive face. GEM’s arms direct users around the gym and offer support.
Friendly, straightforward and encouraging. He’s also efficient with his words to avoid too much fluff and distraction in the middle of a workout.
THE CONCEPT
GEM is an AI-powered augmented reality fitness assistant, spatially aware and mapped to specific locations within a fictional gym, ‘Flex & Flow’.
Leveraging geolocation and real-time AR guidance, GEM transforms the gym experience into an intuitive, effortless journey.
Users activate GEM via an app, where they can interact using text or voice to receive personalised workout recommendations based on their goals or self-identified fitness level.
Real-time directions to gym machines and key locations, powered by spatial awareness. And instant video demonstrations of safe and effective exercise techniques.
By integrating spatial computing, GEM provides real-time location-based assistance, ensuring users can navigate the gym with confidence.
Additionally, GEM can store and track workout history, allowing users to monitor their progress over time.
THE PROTOTYPE
This prototype shows an initial interaction between GEM
and user in the gym. With ChatGPT enabled and trained on the character’s persona, GEM is able to answer questions and provide information and directions in a friendly, upbeat manner.
Please note: animations are not working in this prototype but can be viewed below.
ANIMATIONS
GEM responds to users’ actions or questions, with specific actions triggering a unique animation. Although a kettlebell, there is exaggerated movement to keep the energy of the experience and users’ motivation, high.
GEM directs a gym member left or right towards the correct equipment.
GEM acknowledges a user after they ask a fitness-related question.
GEM celebrates a user’s triumph after they complete a workout.
REFLECTION
As a basic prototype, GEM shows potential as an Embodied AI who can serve a genuine need, especially as the benefits of strength training for over 40s are becoming widely known.
There is commercial potential beyond this audience too: GEM could be a great onboarding tool for gym chains like Fitness First. Integrating video content, especially as AR glasses improve and become more common, could be incredibly helpful.
CREDITS
EDUCATOR
ELVTR
2025
ROLE
Strategist
Creative
Unity Designer
Coder
FIST BUMPS
Martyn Gooding
Alex Hogan
BACK TO THE WORK •
BACK TO THE WORK •