Overview
Exercise modifications let you get an alternative to any exercise in your workout, without messaging the creator to ask. Every exercise has a Swap button built in. From there, you control how it works:
AI-generated modifications run automatically, pulling alternatives from the creator's own content. Zero setup required.
Creator-approved modifications let you hand-pick the exact alternative you'd like from a list of approved modifications chosen by your creator. When you set one, it replaces the AI suggestion for that exercise.
Toggles let you turn swaps off wherever they don't make sense, down to a single exercise.
Custom exercises let you add your own custom alternative exercise if none of the above fit, so you can always log your workout - even if it's not part of the creator's program.
AI-Generated Exercise Modifications
Our system will automatically suggest up to three modifications to choose from, taken from the creator's own library. We use AI to pick the best 1:1 swap per exercise.
You can just tap the swap icon on the exercise player during a short-form workout.
Creator-Approved Exercise Modifications
Creators have the ability to select specific exercise modifications that offer the best alternative to the original exercise.
You will see those modifications labeled as 'Approved by Creator', and these picks will always replace AI exercise modification suggestions.
Tap on the Swap arrows button to select your desired modification.
Your exercise player will now show the exercise modification you selected and the original exercise it was swapped from.
Adding Custom Exercises
You are now able to select something entirely different than the provided modifications by adding your own Custom Exercise and log it as with all other creator provided exercises.
FAQs
What exercises are eligible for modifications?
Most exercises in your creator's workouts are eligible. The exceptions: exercises inside a Tabata circuit, warm-ups, mobility work, stretching, cardio, and exercises with very specific programming, like 1RM tests or unilateral movements. Exercise modifications also aren't available at all in recipe-style or tightly sequenced challenge programs.
How does the AI decide what to suggest?
It only pulls from the creator's own published exercise library, never another creator's. It tries to stay true to the original movement pattern, then looks for variation, most often around equipment: switching a machine to a bar, a bar to a dumbbell, or a dumbbell to body weight. It also adjusts the reps to fit the original exercise's role in that workout.
Why am I not seeing more AI powered modifications?
AI swaps only pull from the creator's own published library, so more options usually comes down to your creator uploading more exercises to their library.
What if there's no good alternative available?
You will see no swap option for that exercise. That's expected, not an error. We always prefer to show nothing instead of a bad match. You can always use the custom exercise feature to add your own.
What if I'm not happy with the AI results?
We're actively monitoring results and tuning the AI to give you better quality over time. If you spot a swap that's clearly wrong, you can on the relevant 'Report Swap' button to let the Playbook product team know.