Procedure

1. Assess Current Status and Safety

   • Query the user for specific details regarding their limitation (e.g., location of pain, medical provider recommendations, or specific mobility restrictions).
   • Review get_user_history to identify previous successful adaptations or recurring flare-up patterns.
   • If a clinical condition is present (e.g., heart failure, diabetes), verify if the user has a pre-exercise evaluation or specific safety thresholds (heart rate limits, glucose requirements) using get_user_preferences.

2. Transition to Autoregulation

   • Replace static percentage-based loads with Autoregulated Resistance Training (ART) metrics.
   • Update exercises using update_exercise to shift intensity markers from %1RM (One Rep Max) to Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) or Repetitions in Reserve (RIR).
   • Instruct the user to adjust the load in real-time based on their "felt" effort, allowing for decreased intensity on high-pain days and increased intensity on low-pain days.

3. Modify Training Variables

   • Intensity/Volume: If the user is experiencing a flare-up, use update_workout to implement "Flexible Volume" by defining set ranges (e.g., 2-4 sets) instead of a fixed number.
   • Modality: For joint-specific pain, transition the exercise sequence from Isometrics (static holds) to Eccentrics (controlled lowering), and finally to full Concentrics as tolerated.
   • Range of Motion (ROM): Modify exercise notes using update_exercise to limit movement to "Pain-Free Range" or partial ROM to maintain muscle activation without nociceptive triggering.

4. Execute Exercise Substitutions

   • Use find_exercise_candidates to identify alternatives that accommodate biomechanical needs (e.g., seated instead of standing for balance issues, or shoulder-friendly variations for wheelchair users).
   • Apply the substitution using swap_exercise to maintain the intended training stimulus while respecting the limitation.

5. Set Function-Based Goals

   • Use create_note to document function-based goals (e.g., quality of life, range of motion improvements) instead of performance-based metrics (e.g., weight on the bar).
   • Integrate Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) snippets in workout notes to reinforce that movement is safe and "hurt does not always equal harm."

6. Monitor and Iterate

   • After the session, review user feedback to determine if the distributed loading (higher frequency, lower session volume) improved systemic inflammation or fatigue management.
   • Continuously adjust the training plan based on the user's non-linear progress toward functional recovery.