A

Project Report
Entitled

Real-Time Pose-Based Interactive Fitness Assistant

Submitted to the Department of Electronics Engineering in Partial Fulfilment for the
Requirements for the Degree of

Bachelor of Technology
(Electronics and Communication)

Presented & Submitted By :

Gaurav Gupta, Anshul Garg, Yash Goyal

Roll No. (U21EC153, U21EC157, U21EC164)
B. TECH. IV(EC), 7th Semester

Guided By :

Dr. (Mrs.) J.N. Patel

Associate Professor , DoECE

(Year: 2024-25)

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING

SARDAR VALLABHBHAI NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Surat-395007, Gujarat, INDIA.
 Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute Of Technology
Surat - 395 007, Gujarat, India

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the Project Report entitled “Real-Time Pose-Based Inter-
active Fitness Assistant” is presented & submitted by Gaurav Gupta, Anshul Garg,
Yash Goyal bearing Roll No. U21EC153, U21EC157, U21EC164 of B.Tech. IV, 7th
Semester in the partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of B.Tech. Degree
in Electronics & Communication Engineering for academic year 2024-25.
They have successfully and satisfactorily completed their Project Exam in all re-
spects. We certify that the work is comprehensive, complete and fit for evaluation.

Dr. (Mrs.) J.N. Patel

Associate Professor & Project Guide

PROJECT EXAMINERS:

Name of Examiners Signature with Date

1. Dr. (Mrs.) Upena D. Dalal

2. Dr. (Mrs.) Shweta N. Shah

3. Dr. Kamal Captain

Dr. J. N. Sarvaiya Seal of The Department

Head, DoECE, SVNIT (December 2024)
 Acknowledgements
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the
successful completion of our project.
First and foremost, we extend our deepest thanks to our project mentor, Dr. (Mrs.)
J.N. Patel, for her invaluable guidance, support, and encouragement throughout this
journey. Her expert insights and constructive feedback were instrumental in shaping
our project and overcoming challenges.
We are also sincerely grateful to Dr. J.N. Sarvaiya, Head of the Department, for
providing us with constant motivation and access to essential resources. His unwavering
support and leadership have been pivotal in enabling us to successfully complete this
project.
We would also like to acknowledge the academic environment fostered by our
SVNIT institution, which promotes creativity, innovation, and excellence. The learn-
ing opportunities and access to state-of-the-art facilities have been vital in helping us
transform our ideas into a practical outcome.
Finally, we extend our gratitude to all faculty members who provided us with the
encouragement and resources necessary for this endeavor. Their support has been in-
strumental in helping us achieve our goals.

Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology

Surat

December 2024

v
 Abstract
This report presents the design, development, and implementation of a hand gesture-
based gym training system designed to revolutionize fitness tracking through advanced
posture and gesture recognition technologies. Using OpenCV and MediaPipe frame-
works, the system enables real-time monitoring of exercises like push-up counting,
plank detection, and dumbbell curl tracking. By ensuring proper form and delivering
precise feedback, it enhances workout efficiency and reduces injury risks.
The report begins with a detailed review of literature, covering advancements in
posture recognition, deep learning applications, and sensor-based approaches. It high-
lights the growing role of computer vision in health and fitness while addressing chal-
lenges like real-time performance, environmental variability, and user diversity. The
importance of combining mathematical models, decision logic, and pose estimation
techniques to create a robust and accurate system is emphasized.
The system’s workflow is outlined, detailing the process from gesture recognition
to exercise-specific analysis. Key components include posture recognition, accuracy
assessment, and performance metric calculations using techniques like angle measure-
ments, pose validation, and metrics such as True Positive, True Negative, False Posi-
tive, and False Negative rates. The integration of OpenCV and MediaPipe showcases
the system’s adaptability to various fitness scenarios.
Future applications include 3D pose estimation, VR, and mobile platforms, with
enhancements like wearable compatibility, AI-driven personalization, and gamification
for an engaging user experience. The system’s potential in rehabilitation and global
healthcare further highlights its versatility and scalability.
This project demonstrates the transformative impact of artificial intelligence and
computer vision in fitness and healthcare, offering an innovative and efficient solution
for personalized workout tracking and performance analysis.

vii
 Table of Contents
Page
Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v
Abstract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii
Table of Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ix
List of Figures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi
List of Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
List of Abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xv
Chapters
1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.1 Motivation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.2 Problem Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.3 Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.4 Flow of the Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2 Literature Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.1 Deep Learning-Based Posture Estimation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.2 Sensor-Based Posture Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.3 Posture Recognition in Healthcare and Ergonomics . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.4 Challenges and Limitations in Posture Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3 System Design & Methodology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3.1 OpenCV for Posture and Gesture Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3.1.1 OpenCV Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3.1.2 Key Features of OpenCV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.2 MediaPipe for Posture and Gesture Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.2.1 MediaPipe Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.2.2 Key Features of MediaPipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.3 Combining OpenCV and MediaPipe for Posture Recognition . . . . . . 11
3.3.1 Workflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.4 Hand Gesture Integration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.4.1 Gesture Recognition with MediaPipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.4.2 Workflow for Gesture-Based Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.5 Flowchart of Posture and Gesture Recognition Workflow . . . . . . . . 14
4 Implementation of Hand Gesture-Based Gym Training System . . . . . . . . 17
4.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4.2 Detailed Explanation of Exercises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4.2.1 Push-Up Counter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4.2.2 Plank Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
4.2.3 Proposed Criteria for Correct Biceps Curl Form . . . . . . . . . 20

ix
Table of Contents

4.2.4 Classification of Correct and Incorrect Form . . . . . . . . . . . 21

4.3 Performance Evaluation Using Confusion Matrix . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.4 Quantitative Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.5 Example Results Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.6 Mathematical Formulation and Decision Logic . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.6.1 Angle Calculation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.6.2 Pose Detection and Plank Validation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.6.3 Exercise-Specific Logic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
4.7 Pseudocode of the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
5 Results & Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.1 Hand Gesture Recognition Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.1.1 Gesture Detection for Exercise Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.1.2 Incorrect Section Interaction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.2 Push-Up Detection Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.2.1 Correct Postures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.2.2 Incorrect Postures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.3 Plank Detection Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.3.1 Correct Postures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.3.2 Incorrect Postures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.4 Dumbbell Curl Detection Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.4.1 Correct Postures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.4.2 Incorrect Postures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
5.5 Summary of Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
6 Conclusion & Future Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
6.1 Conclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
6.2 Future Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

x
 List of Figures

2.1 Sensor-based Bad Seating Posture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2.2 Posture Recognition in Healthcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

3.1 Pre Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

3.2 Tracking posture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.3 Real-time hand gesture tracking for interface control . . . . . . . . . . 14

5.1 Model selection screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

5.2 Finger in the push-up selection section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.3 Finger in the plank selection section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.4 Finger in the bicep-curl selection section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.5 No selection due to overlapping gestures from both hands. . . . . . . . 28
5.6 No input detected from non-hand body parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.7 Correct body alignment in a push-up (Front view). . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.8 Proper push-up posture captured (Elbow at 90°). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.9 Misaligned body during push-up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.10 Push-up with insufficient depth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.11 Straight back and hip alignment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.12 Proper elbow placement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.13 Excessively raised hips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.14 Sagging hips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.15 Stationary elbow. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.16 Full range of motion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.17 Swinging body motion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
5.18 Partial range of motion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

xi
 List of Tables

4.1 Confusion Matrix for Push-Up Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

4.2 Measurement Results and Performance Metrics for Push-Up Classifica-
tion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
4.3 Performance Metrics for Biceps Curl Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

xiii
 List of Abbreviations
3GPP 3rd Generation Partnership Project
AVC Advanced Video Coding
CIF Common Intermediate Format (352 × 288)
CSE Common Subexpression Elimination
DMB Digital Multimedia Broadcasting
DVB-H Digital Video Broadcasting - Handheld
HDTV High-definition Television
IAU Input Adder Unit
IEC International Electrotechnical Commission
ISDN Integrated Services Digital Network
ISO International Organization for Standardization
ITU International Telecommunication Union
JVT Joint Video Team
JPEG Joint Photographic Experts Group
MPEG Moving Picture Experts Group
NTSC National Television System Committee
OAU Output Adder Unit
PAL Phase Alternating Line
QCIF Quarter Common Intermediate Format (176 x 120)
SAU Shift Adder Unit
SD Standard-definition (720 x 576/480 pixels)
SIF Advanced Television Systems Committee
VCEG Video Coding Experts Group

xv
 Chapter 1
Introduction
The evolution of technology has significantly transformed the way people approach
fitness and wellness. With the advent of portable devices, high-speed internet, and
innovative software solutions, fitness enthusiasts now have access to a wide range of
tools and applications designed to support their health goals. However, despite these
advances, there is a significant gap in the realm of interactive and real-time fitness
guidance, which is critical to ensuring exercise effectiveness and safety.
The proposed project, Real-Time Pose-Based Interactive Fitness Assistant, aims to
address this gap by developing an intelligent fitness assistance system. Using cutting-
edge computer vision technologies such as Mediapipe and OpenCV, the project fo-
cuses on analyzing human body movements to provide real-time feedback on posture
and form. Unlike traditional fitness applications that rely on static instructions or pre-
recorded videos, this system dynamically evaluates user performance, ensuring that
exercises are performed correctly and efficiently.
This project emphasizes accessibility and engagement by incorporating gesture-
based controls and real-time performance tracking to create a seamless and interactive
experience. With dedicated modules for popular exercises such as push-ups, planks,
and bicep curls, the system aims to provide high-quality fitness training for enthusiasts
of all skill levels.

1.1 Motivation
The growing trend of home-based fitness solutions has been fueled by the increasing
demand for flexible and cost-effective ways to stay fit. Traditional methods, such as
personal trainers or gym memberships, often come with significant time and financial
commitments. The convenience of home-based workouts, however, presents new chal-
lenges—chiefly the lack of real-time guidance to ensure that exercises are performed
with the correct form and intensity.
Incorrect form can result in reduced effectiveness and increased risk of injury. Addi-
tionally, switching between exercises manually or navigating through different screens
disrupts the workout flow, reducing engagement and overall workout quality. To bridge
this gap, the Real-Time Pose-Based Interactive Fitness Assistant leverages real-time
posture analysis and gesture-based interaction, offering a seamless, hands-free expe-
rience for users. The motivation for this project stems from the desire to provide an
intelligent, user-friendly solution that enhances exercise effectiveness, promotes safety,
and ensures that users stay engaged throughout their workouts.

1
Chapter 1. Introduction

1.2 Problem Statement

The increasing prevalence of sedentary lifestyles, driven by desk-based jobs, digital
entertainment, and automation, has led to a surge in health issues such as:

• Obesity,

• Poor posture,

• Cardiovascular problems, and

• Muscular atrophy.

Physical activity is crucial to counter these issues; however, several barriers prevent
individuals from accessing traditional fitness resources such as personal trainers, gyms,
or structured workout programs.
Home-based fitness solutions have gained popularity as flexible and cost-effective
alternatives. Despite their popularity, these solutions suffer from significant limitations:

• Lack of real-time feedback: Existing applications rely on static instructions

or pre-recorded tutorials that fail to provide real-time guidance for correcting
exercise form.

• Ineffective posture guidance: Incorrect postures reduce exercise effectiveness

and increase the risk of injuries, such as sprains, back pain, or joint strain.

• Disruption in Workout Continuity: Manual navigation of fitness applications

to switch exercises can interrupt the flow of exercise sessions, leading to reduced
focus and diminished overall engagement.

While the availability of advanced computer vision technologies, such as Mediapipe

and OpenCV, has introduced possibilities for real-time posture analysis, their integra-
tion into consumer fitness systems remains limited. A system is needed that not only
provides real-time feedback but also offers an intuitive interaction method to maintain
the user’s focus and workout flow.
The Real-Time Pose-Based Interactive Fitness Assistant addresses these challenges
by combining advanced computer vision technology, real-time feedback mechanisms,
and gesture-based controls. The system focuses on ensuring proper form, reducing
injury risk, and enhancing accessibility for users of all fitness levels.

1.3 Objectives
The primary objectives of the Real-Time Pose-Based Interactive Fitness Assistant are:

2
 1.3. Objectives

• Accurate Pose Estimation:

– Utilize Mediapipe’s pose detection framework to identify human body land-

marks with high precision.
– Create a skeletal map of critical joints, limbs, and the spine for real-time
analysis.
– Measure angles and alignment, e.g., assessing hip and shoulder alignment
during plank exercises, to ensure exercise correctness.

• Custom Exercise Modules:

– Design tailored modules for three key exercises:

1. Plank Position: Evaluate spinal straightness, shoulder alignment, and
elbow positioning.
2. Push-ups: Measure repetition depth, elbow angle, and torso alignment.
3. Bicep Curls: Assess range of motion, elbow stability, and wrist orien-
tation to optimize muscle engagement.
– Include adaptive feedback to accommodate variations in user body structure
and flexibility.

• Gesture-Based Controls for Seamless Interaction:

– Integrate Mediapipe’s hand-tracking module to allow users to interact with

the system using gestures like swipes and taps.
– Enable hands-free functionalities, such as:

* Switching exercises.
* Viewing progress metrics.
– Eliminate interruptions caused by manual navigation.

• Performance Tracking and Analytics:

– Record and analyze metrics, such as:

1. Repetition Count: Automatically count exercise repetitions.
2. Form Accuracy: Score user performance based on adherence to ideal
postures.
3. Exercise Duration: Track session duration and compile cumulative statis-
tics.
– Provide detailed analytics to help users monitor progress and identify areas
for improvement.

3
Chapter 1. Introduction

1.4 Flow of the Organization

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Real-Time Pose-Based Interactive
Fitness Assistant and is structured to ensure a logical progression of concepts and find-
ings. It begins with an introduction, offering an overview of the project, including its
motivation and objectives, while emphasizing the importance of real-time feedback and
accessibility in modern fitness applications. The literature review follows, discussing
existing systems and technologies, identifying their limitations, and highlighting the
gaps that this project aims to address. This section establishes the context and neces-
sity for developing a system leveraging advancements in computer vision and machine
learning technologies.
The subsequent section covers the system design and methodology, detailing the
architecture and components of the system with a focus on Mediapipe and OpenCV
for pose detection and analysis. It explains how these tools are used to create a ro-
bust system tailored for three exercises: plank, push-ups, and bicep curls. The design
emphasizes accurate pose estimation, real-time feedback, and user interaction through
gesture-based controls to ensure a seamless and efficient workout experience.
The implementation section describes the development of the hand gesture-based
gym training system. It elaborates on the integration of Mediapipe’s hand-tracking
module to enable intuitive, hands-free interaction and the development of custom mod-
ules for form assessment, repetition counting, and performance monitoring. Addition-
ally, it provides details about the software tools and techniques used in building the
system.
The results and analysis section evaluates the system’s performance by presenting
the testing methodology and analyzing the results against the defined objectives. This
section demonstrates the system’s effectiveness in providing accurate, real-time feed-
back and enhancing user engagement during workouts.
The report concludes with a summary of the achievements and potential future di-
rections for the project. The conclusion highlights the system’s ability to transform
home fitness experiences and discusses possible enhancements, such as adding more
exercises, incorporating AI-driven adaptive feedback, and exploring augmented reality
to improve interaction and engagement further.

4
 Chapter 2
Literature Review

2.1 Deep Learning-Based Posture Estimation

Deep learning-based posture estimation has gained widespread attention due to its abil-
ity to process large datasets and identify complex patterns without extensive human
intervention. Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), in particular, have demonstrated
great success in posture recognition tasks, owing to their proficiency in feature extrac-
tion and pattern recognition from images and videos. CNNs are often trained on vast
amounts of labeled data, which allows them to learn intricate details about human body
structures and postures.
Recent research has shown that CNN-based models can be effectively utilized for
detecting incorrect postures during exercises, such as yoga, squats, and push-ups. For
example, a study proposed a system that uses a human skeleton model and CNN to
analyze images of yoga poses, providing real-time feedback on incorrect posture and
suggesting corrective actions [1]. Another notable application uses an Arduino-based
postural pressure measuring device to detect bad posture from an image and recom-
mends exercises to improve it [2].
These systems generally rely on image data, which is processed by deep learning
models to assess the body’s alignment and detect deviations from the correct posture.
The use of such models not only improves the accuracy of posture recognition but also
facilitates automatic feedback mechanisms that guide users in real-time. The feedback
can be delivered in various forms, including text, voice commands, or even vibrations
through wearable devices.

2.2 Sensor-Based Posture Recognition

In sensor-based posture recognition, wearable devices equipped with accelerometers,
gyroscopes, and pressure sensors capture real-time data on body movements and pos-
ture. Unlike image-based methods, sensor-based systems do not require a camera or
visual data input. Instead, they rely on physical measurements of a user’s movement,
orientation, and body position. These devices are particularly useful in situations where
privacy is a concern or when visual data is difficult to obtain, such as in low-light envi-
ronments or during certain physical activities [3].
Wearable sensors offer the advantage of continuous data collection, making them
ideal for applications in physical therapy and sports training. For instance, a study

5
Chapter 2. Literature Review

utilized wearable sensors and wireless data transmission to recognize human poses,
offering a comprehensive analysis of posture deviations during physical activities [4].
Additionally, researchers have integrated sensor data with mobile applications to deliver
real-time feedback to users, providing posture correction tips via Bluetooth-enabled
wearable devices.

Figure 2.1: Sensor-based Bad Seating Posture

Figure 2.1 illustrates an example of sensor-based posture recognition for detecting bad
seating posture. This system utilizes wearable sensors to monitor a user’s sitting posture
and detect deviations that may lead to discomfort or long-term musculoskeletal issues.
The real-time feedback provided by the system helps in correcting posture for better
health outcomes.
One of the primary challenges in sensor-based posture recognition is the need for
users to wear additional devices. These devices, while effective in collecting data, can
be cumbersome or uncomfortable, which may lead to lower compliance rates among
users. However, recent advancements in textile-based sensors embedded in clothing
and ergonomic wearables have made it easier for users to integrate these systems into
their daily routines. By combining sensor-based systems with smartphone applications,
researchers have created highly accessible posture correction systems that offer a seam-
less user experience [5].

2.3 Posture Recognition in Healthcare and Ergonomics

Posture recognition plays a critical role in preventing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)
and promoting good ergonomic practices, particularly in workplaces where employees
spend long hours sitting or performing repetitive tasks. Ergonomic assessments using
posture recognition technologies have shown that these systems can significantly reduce
the risk of injuries related to poor posture, such as back pain, neck strain, and repetitive
stress injuries.

6
 2.4. Challenges and Limitations in Posture Recognition

One example of an ergonomic application is the Motion Capture (MOCAP) system,

which uses specialized cameras and sensors to track and analyze body movements in
real-time. MOCAP technology is often used in healthcare to evaluate an individual’s
posture and identify areas of improvement. The system provides detailed information
about the user’s movements, allowing healthcare professionals to assess postural devi-
ations and recommend corrective actions [6].
Furthermore, in the field of workplace ergonomics, the OWAS (Ovako Working Pos-
ture Assessment System) has been widely used to assess workers’ postures and identify
risky postural habits that could lead to injury. Recent studies have integrated AI into
OWAS, improving the system’s ability to classify postures and make more accurate
predictions about potential ergonomic risks [7]. AI-based posture recognition systems
can monitor an individual’s posture over time and provide real-time feedback to help
prevent the onset of musculoskeletal problems.

Figure 2.2: Posture Recognition in Healthcare

Figure 2.2 shows an example of posture recognition used in healthcare settings. This
system helps healthcare professionals assess postural deviations and prevent injury
through real-time analysis and correction during daily activities. The integration of
AI helps offer personalized recommendations based on unique body mechanics.
Additionally, AI algorithms are being used to process posture data collected from
wearable devices or sensors, enabling personalized recommendations based on an in-
dividual’s unique body mechanics and movement patterns. By incorporating real-time
feedback, AI systems help users adjust their posture dynamically during daily activities,
thus promoting better health outcomes and enhancing workplace productivity [8].

2.4 Challenges and Limitations in Posture Recognition

Despite the considerable progress made in posture recognition technologies, several
challenges and limitations still hinder their widespread adoption and effectiveness. One
significant issue is the time and computational power required to process large amounts

7
Chapter 2. Literature Review

of data in real-time. Deep learning-based posture recognition systems, for example,

require extensive training on large datasets, which can be time-consuming and compu-
tationally expensive [9].
Moreover, real-time applications, such as gaming, fitness tracking, or rehabilitation,
require posture recognition systems that can provide immediate feedback. Current sys-
tems often struggle with latency and may fail to offer instant corrections, which limits
their practicality in high-demand scenarios. There is an ongoing need to optimize these
models to reduce processing time while maintaining high accuracy.
Another challenge is the reliance on specialized devices. Many sensor-based posture
recognition systems require users to wear additional devices, such as wristbands, smart
clothing, or sensor-equipped shoes. While these devices are effective in collecting data,
they can be uncomfortable, expensive, or inconvenient for users. This issue has led
to research into more user-friendly solutions, such as integrating sensors into everyday
clothing or reducing the number of devices required for accurate posture monitoring.
Finally, there is the issue of dataset limitations. Deep learning models rely heavily
on large, annotated datasets to train accurate posture recognition systems. However, ob-
taining large amounts of labeled data for various postures and activities can be difficult,
particularly in niche applications such as sports or occupational therapy. To overcome
this, researchers are exploring unsupervised learning techniques and data augmentation
methods to enhance the performance of posture recognition models without relying on
massive labeled datasets [10].
The Real-Time Pose-Based Interactive Fitness Assistant addresses key challenges
in posture recognition, focusing on real-time feedback, device reliance, and dataset
limitations.

• Optimizing Real-Time Feedback: To improve efficiency, the system uses pre-

trained models from Mediapipe and optimizes the pose estimation pipeline, re-
ducing latency and computational overhead. Techniques like model quantization
ensure fast performance even on limited-resource devices.

• Reducing Device Dependence: The system eliminates the need for wearable de-
vices by using gesture-based controls through Mediapipe’s hand-tracking mod-
ule, allowing users to interact seamlessly with the system using simple gestures.

• Enhancing Model Training: To tackle dataset limitations, data augmentation

and unsupervised learning methods are applied, expanding the training dataset
and improving the system’s ability to recognize and correct a variety of postures.

These strategies ensure the system provides accurate, real-time feedback while main-
taining ease of use and adaptability for all users.

8
 Chapter 3
System Design & Methodology
In recent years, computer vision and machine learning have revolutionized several do-
mains, including healthcare, robotics, entertainment, and sports, by enabling machines
to interpret and interact with the visual world. To achieve this, the field has seen the rise
of several powerful libraries and frameworks. Two prominent technologies in this space
are OpenCV and MediaPipe, which play a crucial role in posture recognition, motion
tracking, and gesture recognition systems [11].
OpenCV (Open Source Computer Vision Library) is a widely used open-source
software library that provides real-time computer vision capabilities. It includes a vast
collection of algorithms for image processing, video analysis, object detection, and
more. OpenCV is compatible with various programming languages such as Python,
C++, and Java and is highly optimized for real-time processing on both CPUs and
GPUs [12].
MediaPipe, developed by Google, is an open-source framework primarily designed
for building cross-platform multimodal applied machine learning pipelines. MediaPipe
is a powerful tool for the development of real-time computer vision applications such as
posture detection, gesture recognition, and hand tracking. It provides a highly efficient
pipeline that can process images and videos to detect key points of the human body and
interpret human gestures [13].
Both OpenCV and MediaPipe are extensively used together in various domains like
sports and fitness, healthcare, and interactive user interfaces. This section explores
the core features and methodologies behind OpenCV and MediaPipe, providing insight
into how they work individually and synergistically in posture and gesture recognition
applications.

3.1 OpenCV for Posture and Gesture Recognition

3.1.1 OpenCV Overview

OpenCV is a popular open-source computer vision library designed for real-time image
and video processing. It supports a wide range of tasks, including image manipula-
tion, feature detection, object tracking, face recognition, and more. OpenCV’s capabil-
ities make it ideal for posture recognition, where real-time processing and accuracy are
paramount [14].

9
Chapter 3. System Design & Methodology

3.1.2 Key Features of OpenCV

• Image Preprocessing: OpenCV allows the preprocessing of images and videos
to improve the input for further analysis. Techniques such as noise reduction,
smoothing, and histogram equalization help optimize the quality of images before
applying complex algorithms like object detection [15].

• Feature Detection: One of OpenCV’s most crucial functions is feature detection,

which identifies important points, lines, and contours in images that can be used to
track motion or recognize patterns. Feature detectors like ORB (Oriented FAST
and Rotated BRIEF) and SIFT (Scale-Invariant Feature Transform) are popular
for detecting and matching keypoints between images [16].

• Object Detection: OpenCV supports several object detection algorithms such

as Haar Cascades, HOG (Histogram of Oriented Gradients), and deep learning-
based methods like YOLO (You Only Look Once) and SSD (Single Shot Multi-
box Detector). These methods help in recognizing specific body parts or objects,
which is critical for detecting postures and gestures in posture recognition sys-
tems [11].

• Pose Estimation: Pose estimation involves identifying key points in a person’s

body and estimating their position in a 2D or 3D space. OpenCV, combined
with machine learning models, can be used for human pose detection, which is
essential for understanding body posture during physical activities [17].

3.2 MediaPipe for Posture and Gesture Recognition

3.2.1 MediaPipe Overview
MediaPipe is a framework developed by Google, specifically designed to enable fast
and efficient real-time machine learning applications. MediaPipe integrates various
machine learning models, optimized for different tasks such as pose estimation, face
detection, hand tracking, and more. One of the main advantages of MediaPipe is its
ability to run in real-time across various platforms, including mobile devices, desktops,
and the web [13].

3.2.2 Key Features of MediaPipe

• Pose Estimation: MediaPipe provides an optimized human pose estimation so-
lution that works with both 2D and 3D body keypoints. The framework’s Pose
model detects 33 key body landmarks and provides real-time feedback on body

10
 3.3. Combining OpenCV and MediaPipe for Posture Recognition

positioning, which is essential for applications such as posture detection during

exercises or rehabilitation [13].

• Hand Tracking: MediaPipe’s Hand Tracking model is one of the most ad-
vanced and efficient systems for detecting and tracking the position of a person’s
hands. It is particularly useful for gesture-based interactions in fitness and gaming
applications. [18]

• Efficient Real-Time Processing: MediaPipe is designed for real-time, cross-

platform execution, enabling it to run efficiently on mobile and embedded sys-
tems. This makes it ideal for interactive applications where immediate feedback
is essential [13].

3.3 Combining OpenCV and MediaPipe for Posture Recog-

nition
While both OpenCV and MediaPipe offer powerful capabilities individually, their inte-
gration unlocks new possibilities for creating a robust and dynamic posture recognition
system. By leveraging the advanced features of these technologies, we can ensure real-
time tracking, detailed analysis, and interactive feedback for users during their physical
activities. This section outlines the methodology and workflow that combines these
tools effectively.

Figure 3.1: Pre Processing

Figure 3.1 illustrates the preprocessing stage, where raw video frames captured from
the camera are processed to enhance image quality. Techniques such as resizing, noise
reduction, and histogram equalization are applied using OpenCV [19]. This step en-
sures optimal input for subsequent posture recognition processes by improving clarity
and reducing artifacts.

3.3.1 Workflow
The posture recognition system involves several interconnected stages, each contribut-
ing to the overall functionality and accuracy of the system. The workflow is designed
to provide real-time, precise, and user-friendly feedback to ensure safe and effective
exercises.

11
Chapter 3. System Design & Methodology

• Video Capture: The system begins by capturing video frames using a camera,
which serves as the input source. These frames are processed in real time to en-
sure optimal quality for analysis. OpenCV is employed at this stage for basic
preprocessing tasks, including resizing, color space conversion, and noise reduc-
tion. These preprocessing steps enhance the image clarity, which is critical for
accurate detection of body landmarks [20].

• Key Point Detection: MediaPipe’s pose detection model is applied to identify

33 key body landmarks, including joints and limbs. OpenCV tracks these points
across frames, enabling dynamic posture estimation. This combination allows the
system to analyze movements such as spinal alignment during a plank or elbow
angles during a push-up [13].

• Feature Extraction: Once key points are detected, additional features like angles
between joints and distances between landmarks are calculated. These features
are crucial for detailed feedback on the user’s posture and technique [21].

• Posture Evaluation: The extracted features are compared with ideal postures
stored in the system. For example, the system checks if the hips and shoulders
are aligned during a plank, or evaluates the depth and alignment of the torso
during a push-up.

• Feedback Mechanism: The feedback mechanism generates real-time corrective

guidance through:

– Visual Feedback: Color-coded markers or lines are displayed on the screen

to highlight correct or incorrect positions, providing real-time insights to the
user. These visual cues help in maintaining proper form by clearly indicat-
ing areas that require adjustments. For example, a green line might signify
correct posture, while a red line could indicate misalignment.

• Progress Tracking and Analysis: The system records performance metrics such
as the number of correct repetitions, average form accuracy, and workout du-
ration. These statistics are displayed on the user interface, enabling progress
tracking and identifying areas for improvement [22].

Figure 3.2 depicts the detection of body landmarks using MediaPipe’s Pose model.
It highlights the 33 key body points identified during posture analysis. These land-
marks are dynamically tracked across frames to evaluate posture alignment and detect
deviations from ideal forms during exercises like planks or push-ups.
This integrated approach not only enhances the user’s workout experience by ensur-
ing safety and effectiveness but also democratizes access to professional-level fitness

12
 3.4. Hand Gesture Integration

Figure 3.2: Tracking posture

guidance, making it more accessible and engaging for users of all levels. Through the
synergistic use of OpenCV and MediaPipe, the posture recognition system bridges the
gap between traditional fitness methods and modern technological advancements.

3.4 Hand Gesture Integration

Hand gesture recognition is a pivotal feature of the Real-Time Pose-Based Interactive
Fitness Assistant project, designed to offer users a seamless and intuitive way to inter-
act with the system during workouts. This hands-free control mechanism enhances user
convenience by eliminating the need for physical contact with the device, thus providing
a hygienic and distraction-free experience. By leveraging advanced hand tracking tech-
nology, the system translates natural gestures into actionable commands, simplifying
user interaction while maintaining focus on the fitness routine.

3.4.1 Gesture Recognition with MediaPipe

The MediaPipe Hand Tracking model plays a central role in enabling gesture recog-
nition, leveraging state-of-the-art machine learning techniques to identify and track 21
key points on each hand with high precision. These landmarks represent critical posi-
tions on the fingers and palm, forming the foundation for analyzing complex gestures.
The model operates in real-time, ensuring seamless interaction with minimal latency.
This capability allows the system to interpret predefined gestures, such as swipes, taps,
and thumbs-up signals, and associate them with specific commands like starting ex-
ercises, pausing routines, or adjusting settings. Additionally, MediaPipe’s robustness
ensures reliable gesture detection under varying lighting and background conditions,
further enhancing usability.

13
Chapter 3. System Design & Methodology

3.4.2 Workflow for Gesture-Based Control

The system’s gesture-based control workflow consists of the following stages:
Gesture Detection: The camera captures hand movements and processes video
frames to extract key point data using the MediaPipe Hand Tracking model. Feature
Analysis: Based on the identified landmarks, the system analyzes the spatial arrange-
ment of key points to classify gestures, such as fist, open palm, or specific finger com-
binations. Command Mapping: Recognized gestures are mapped to predefined com-
mands, enabling users to navigate through workout options, start or pause routines, and
access system settings effortlessly. Real-Time Feedback: The system provides visual or
auditory cues to confirm gesture recognition and the execution of the associated com-
mand. This feedback ensures an interactive and responsive user experience.

Figure 3.3: Real-time hand gesture tracking for interface control

Figure 3.3 illustrates the hand gesture recognition process powered by MediaPipe’s
Hand Tracking model. The figure highlights the identification of 21 distinct landmarks
that facilitate gesture-based controls. For example, a swipe gesture can be used to
switch between workout exercises, while a thumbs-up gesture might initiate the work-
out. This real-time tracking capability ensures an intuitive, user-friendly interface, al-
lowing users to stay engaged with their fitness activities without interruptions.

3.5 Flowchart of Posture and Gesture Recognition Work-

flow
The flowchart of Posture and Gesture Recognition outlines the systematic workflow
of the posture recognition system, starting from video input acquisition to real-time

14
 3.5. Flowchart of Posture and Gesture Recognition Workflow

feedback generation. Video frames are first preprocessed using OpenCV to enhance
quality through resizing, noise reduction, and background filtering, ensuring clean in-
put for analysis. MediaPipe then detects key body landmarks, such as joints and limb
positions, with high accuracy, forming the basis for feature extraction.

Start: Video Capture

Preprocessing with OpenCV

Key Point Detection (MediaPipe)

Feature Extraction (Angles, Distances)

Posture Evaluation

Real-time Feedback Generation

Continuous Monitoring

End

During feature extraction, metrics like joint angles and distances are calculated to
evaluate the user’s posture and identify deviations from ideal poses or gestures. The
system provides interactive real-time feedback, enabling users to correct and improve
their posture continuously. By combining OpenCV’s preprocessing capabilities with
MediaPipe’s pose estimation, the system ensures precise analysis and seamless opera-
tion for effective posture recognition.
Overall, this chapter outlines the system design and methodology for the Real-
Time Pose-Based Interactive Fitness Assistant, which integrates advanced technolo-

15
Chapter 3. System Design & Methodology

gies for posture and gesture recognition. It describes how real-time video process-
ing, key point detection, and posture evaluation are achieved through a combination of
OpenCV and MediaPipe. The system utilizes OpenCV for preprocessing and feature
extraction, while MediaPipe handles pose estimation and hand tracking. By combining
the strengths of these two technologies, the system provides users with real-time feed-
back and performance tracking, ensuring an effective and interactive fitness experience
through the synergistic use of MediaPipe and OpenCV.

16
 Chapter 4
Implementation of Hand Gesture-Based Gym
Training System

4.1 Introduction
This chapter details the implementation of a hand gesture-based gym training system
designed for exercise repetition counting and form monitoring using real-time computer
vision techniques. Leveraging MediaPipe’s pose and hand tracking models, the system
detects body landmarks and gestures through a webcam feed. Users interact using hand
gestures to select exercises, including push-ups, plank holds, and dumbbell curls. The
system ensures correct form while counting repetitions automatically.
Push-Ups: The system tracks body alignment and motion depth, ensuring proper
posture and counting repetitions.
Plank Holds: It monitors core alignment and stability, advising users on maintain-
ing correct posture for improved endurance.
Dumbbell Curls: Arm movement and range of motion are analyzed to ensure
proper form, targeting biceps effectively.
This interactive system enhances gym training by providing real-time feedback and
tracking progress for optimal performance.

4.2 Detailed Explanation of Exercises

The implementation of the hand gesture-based gym training system includes three main
exercises: push-ups, plank holds, and dumbbell curls. Each exercise has its own detec-
tion and counting logic to ensure accurate performance monitoring.

4.2.1 Push-Up Counter

The push-up counter leverages MediaPipe’s pose detection to monitor the shoulder,
elbow, and wrist positions for accurate form detection and repetition counting. In ad-
dition to providing real-time feedback, the system uses a performance evaluation ap-
proach based on quantitative analysis using a confusion matrix to classify and vali-
date push-up performance as either correct or incorrect.

17
Chapter 4. Implementation of Hand Gesture-Based Gym Training System

Push-Up Form Detection

1. Form Detection: The angle between the upper arm and forearm is monitored. A
push-up is classified as correct if:

• The angle between the shoulder, elbow, and wrist (θ) is less than 90° [23]
at the lowest level.
• The angle exceeds 160° [24] at the highest level.

The system checks the body’s alignment to ensure the shoulders dip below the
elbows for proper range of motion.

2. Repetition Counting: Repetition is counted when the user completes one full
motion, lowering the body and returning to the initial position. Thresholds are
established to detect transitions between the lowest and highest levels.

3. Feedback Mechanism: If the user fails to dip below the threshold angle or does
not extend fully, the system provides corrective feedback, promoting proper form
and reducing the risk of injury.

Performance Evaluation Using Confusion Matrix

To evaluate the system’s accuracy, a confusion matrix is used. Each push-up is indi-
vidually analyzed based on front and flank views. The system considers five criteria:

• Elbow angles

• Shoulder-to-elbow ratio

• Body balance

• Waist alignment

• Knee straightness

These criteria determine whether a push-up is correct or incorrect. The matrix classifies
predictions into four categories:

• True Positive (TP): A correct push-up is classified as correct.

• False Positive (FP): An incorrect push-up is classified as correct.

• False Negative (FN): A correct push-up is classified as incorrect.

• True Negative (TN): An incorrect push-up is classified as incorrect [25].

18
 4.2. Detailed Explanation of Exercises

Confusion Matrix and Metrics

The confusion matrix summarizes the classification results, as shown below:

Predicted: Correct Predicted: Incorrect

Actual: Correct True Positive (TP) False Negative (FN)
Actual: Incorrect False Positive (FP) True Negative (TN)

Table 4.1: Confusion Matrix for Push-Up Classification

From this matrix, key performance metrics are calculated:

• Accuracy: Measures the proportion of correctly classified push-ups:

TP + TN
Accuracy =
TP + TN + FP + FN

• Precision: Measures how many predicted correct push-ups are actually correct:
TP
Precision =
TP + FP

• Recall (Sensitivity): Measures how many actual correct push-ups are identified:
TP
Recall =
TP + FN

• F1-Score: Harmonic mean of precision and recall:

Precision · Recall
F1-Score = 2 ·
Precision + Recall

Thresholds and Criteria

The system applies the following thresholds for classification:

1. Elbow Angles:

• Correct push-ups: Elbow angles are 50°–70° at the lowest level and exceed
150° [26] at the highest level.
• Incorrect push-ups: Elbow angles remain 100°–140° [27] at the lowest level,
failing to dip sufficiently.

2. Shoulder-to-Elbow Ratio (R):

• Correct push-ups: R < 0.5 at the lowest level and R > 0.85 [28] at the
highest level.

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Chapter 4. Implementation of Hand Gesture-Based Gym Training System

• Incorrect push-ups: R falls between 0.6 and 0.8, indicating insufficient low-
ering.

3. Body Balance (ϕ):

• Correct push-ups: Body angle deviations are ≤ 20.

• Incorrect push-ups: Deviations exceed 30, indicating instability.

4. Waist and Knee Angles:

• Correct push-ups: Angles are 160°–180° [23] for both waist and knees.
• Incorrect push-ups: Angles fall below 150°, indicating improper alignment.

Measurements Results Performance Metrics Results

True Positive (TP) 0.623 Accuracy 90.00%
False Positive (FP) 0.086 Precision 87.82%
False Negative (FN) 0.014 Recall 97.86%
True Negative (TN) 0.277 F-measure 92.57%

Table 4.2: Measurement Results and Performance Metrics for Push-Up Classification

4.2.2 Plank Detection

Plank detection is essential for exercises that require core stability. The system checks
whether the user’s body is aligned in a straight line using angles calculated between the
shoulder, hip, and ankle:
• Body Alignment: The angle α between the shoulder, hip, and ankle should ide-
ally lie between 160° and 180° [29] for a proper plank position. This range ac-
counts for a slight natural curve in the back but ensures the body remains rela-
tively horizontal.

• Angle Calculation: Using the calculate angle() function, the system

continuously monitors the angle and checks for deviations. If the hip drops too
low or rises too high, the system indicates an incorrect plank form [24].

• Holding Duration: The system can be extended to calculate how long the user
holds the plank, providing a timer and feedback on plank endurance.

4.2.3 Proposed Criteria for Correct Biceps Curl Form

To classify correct and incorrect biceps curls, the following criteria are considered:

20
 4.2. Detailed Explanation of Exercises

Full Range of Motion

• At the starting position, the arm is fully extended, with the angle (β) between the
upper arm and forearm close to 180◦ [30].

• At the top of the curl, the arm is fully contracted, with β reaching approximately
45◦ .

Shoulder Rotation Monitoring

The angle between the upper arm and torso should remain below 35◦ during the move-
ment. Excessive rotation indicates improper use of the shoulder to lift the weight.

Minimum Contraction
At the top of the curl, the angle between the upper arm and forearm must drop below
70 [29] to confirm the user is lifting the weight all the way up.

4.2.4 Classification of Correct and Incorrect Form

Using the above criteria, the system evaluates each repetition in real-time and catego-
rizes the form as:

Correct Form

• The movement follows the full range of motion (180◦ to 45◦ ) [24] without exces-
sive shoulder rotation or incomplete contraction.

• Controlled speed is maintained throughout the repetition.

Incorrect Form
One or more of the following issues are detected:

• Shoulder angle exceeds 35◦ , indicating excessive shoulder rotation.

• Forearm angle at the top does not drop below 70, indicating incomplete contrac-
tion.

• Speed of motion is too fast, indicating momentum-based lifting.

21
Chapter 4. Implementation of Hand Gesture-Based Gym Training System

4.3 Performance Evaluation Using Confusion Matrix

To evaluate the accuracy of the system, we utilize a confusion matrix with the following
components:

• True Positive (TP): Correct biceps curls identified as correct.

• False Positive (FP): Incorrect biceps curls misclassified as correct.

• False Negative (FN): Correct biceps curls misclassified as incorrect.

• True Negative (TN): Incorrect biceps curls identified as incorrect.

4.4 Quantitative Analysis

Based on the implementation and testing on a dataset, the following metrics are calcu-
lated:

• Accuracy: Measures the overall correctness of predictions.

• Precision: Evaluates the proportion of true positive classifications among all pre-
dicted correct curls.

• Recall: Assesses the ability to detect correct curls accurately.

• F1-Score: Provides a harmonic mean of precision and recall to evaluate system

robustness.

4.5 Example Results Table

Table 4.3: Performance Metrics for Biceps Curl Evaluation

Metric Value
True Positive (TP) 0.623
False Positive (FP) 0.086
False Negative (FN) 0.014
True Negative (TN) 0.277
Accuracy 90.00%
Precision 87.82%
Recall 97.86%
F1-Score 92.57%

22
 4.6. Mathematical Formulation and Decision Logic

Each of these exercises is implemented to ensure accurate tracking and user feedback,
promoting proper form and efficiency in workouts [25]. The use of mathematical for-
mulas for angle calculations and Mediapipe’s robust pose detection enables a highly
responsive and reliable training system.

4.6 Mathematical Formulation and Decision Logic

The code incorporates several mathematical concepts and formulas to ensure accurate
detection and monitoring of exercises. The key mathematical aspects are described
below:

4.6.1 Angle Calculation

The system uses trigonometry to calculate the angle between three key points on the
body. Consider three points A(x1 , y1 ), B(x2 , y2 ), and C(x3 , y3 ) representing the co-
ordinates of body landmarks. The angle θ at point B can be computed using the dot
product formula: !
⃗ · BC
AB ⃗
θ = arccos
⃗ BC|
|AB|| ⃗

where:
⃗ = (x2 − x1 , y2 − y1 ),
AB ⃗ = (x3 − x2 , y3 − y2 )
BC
⃗ · BC
AB ⃗ = (x2 − x1 )(x3 − x2 ) + (y2 − y1 )(y3 − y2 )

⃗ = (x2 − x1 )2 + (y2 − y1 )2 , |BC|

⃗ = (x3 − x2 )2 + (y3 − y2 )2
p p
|AB|

The calculated angle θ is used to determine whether the user is in the correct posture
for the exercise.

4.6.2 Pose Detection and Plank Validation

For detecting a proper plank position, the system checks the angle between the shoulder,
hip, and ankle. If the body is aligned horizontally, the angle α between these three points
should be approximately between 160° and 180° [31]:

160◦ ≤ α ≤ 180◦

The function is plank() implements this logic to confirm if the user is holding
a plank position correctly. Minor variations are tolerated to account for natural body
movement.

23
Chapter 4. Implementation of Hand Gesture-Based Gym Training System

4.6.3 Exercise-Specific Logic

For each exercise, the system implements specialized logic:

• Push-Up Counter: The code tracks the relative positions of the shoulders and el-
bows. A repetition is counted when the shoulders dip below a specified threshold
relative to the elbows and then return to the original position.

• Dumbbell Curl Counter: The angle β between the upper arm and forearm is cal-
culated. The system uses thresholds to detect full extension and full contraction
of the arm:

If β ≤ 45◦ (arm fully contracted) and then β ≥ 160◦ (arm fully extended), count a curl.

4.7 Pseudocode of the System

The following pseudocode provides a high-level overview of the implementation logic:

Listing 4.1: Pseudocode of the System

# Import necessary l i b r a r i e s
I n i t i a l i z e M e d i a p i p e f o r p o s e and hand d e t e c t i o n

Function c a l c u l a t e a n g l e ( a , b , c ) :
C a l c u l a t e angle between t h r e e p o i n t s using dot p r o d u c t
Return angle

F u n c t i o n i s p l a n k ( s ho u ld e r , hip , a n k l e ) :
C a l c u l a t e angle between p o i n t s
Check i f a n g l e i s w i t h i n p l a n k range
Return True i f plank p o s i t i o n , o t h e r w i s e F a l s e

Class PoseDetector :
I n i t i a l i z e pose d e t e c t o r
F u n c t i o n f i n d P o s e ( image , draw= T r u e ) :
C o n v e r t image t o RGB
Detect pose landmarks
Draw l a n d m a r k s i f draw= T r u e
R e t u r n p r o c e s s e d image
F u n c t i o n f i n d P o s i t i o n ( image , draw= T r u e ) :
Return l i s t of landmark p o s i t i o n s
F u n c t i o n f i n d A n g l e ( image , p1 , p2 , p3 , draw= T r u e ) :

24
 4.7. Pseudocode of the System

C a l c u l a t e angle between t h r e e landmarks

Return c a l c u l a t e d angle

Function run selected model ( s e l e c t i o n ) :

S t a r t webcam c a p t u r e
Loop u n t i l ’ b ’ or ’ q ’ key p r e s s e d :
I f s e l e c t i o n i s push −up c o u n t e r :
T r a c k arm p o s i t i o n s and c o u n t r e p e t i t i o n s
Else i f s e l e c t i o n i s plank d e t e c t i o n :
Check i f u s e r i s i n p l a n k p o s i t i o n
Else i f s e l e c t i o n i s dumbbell c o u n t e r :
Count arm c u r l s and r e p e t i t i o n s
D i s p l a y image and f e e d b a c k
R e l e a s e webcam and c l o s e window

Function select model ( ) :

S t a r t webcam c a p t u r e f o r model s e l e c t i o n
Loop u n t i l a model i s s e l e c t e d :
Draw b o x e s f o r model o p t i o n s
D e t e c t hand and c h e c k i f i n box
B r e a k l o o p i f model i s s e l e c t e d
R e t u r n s e l e c t e d model

Main Program :
While T r u e :
Call select model ()
I f model i s s e l e c t e d :
Call run selected model ()
I f u s e r wants to q u i t :
E x i t program
Else :
E x i t program

The implementation of this hand gesture-based gym training system demonstrates

the integration of mathematical concepts with computer vision techniques. By using
trigonometric formulas to calculate angles and efficiently employing Mediapipe’s pose
and hand detection models, the system provides accurate and real-time feedback for
various exercises. The use of real-time video input ensures an engaging and hands-free
experience for users. With the ability to track movements, detect improper form, and
suggest corrective actions, the system promotes safer and more effective workouts.

25
Chapter 4. Implementation of Hand Gesture-Based Gym Training System

This project highlights the potential of combining machine learning and mathemati-
cal algorithms to enhance fitness tracking systems, offering significant advancements in
health monitoring and interactive exercise technologies. By leveraging real-time data,
the system not only helps users optimize their workout routines but also contributes to
fostering a more personalized approach to fitness. As it evolves, this approach could be
expanded to include more complex exercises and even integrate with wearable devices,
further enriching the user’s fitness journey.
Moreover, the scalability of this system allows for potential integration with other
fitness platforms, creating a more connected and comprehensive ecosystem for health
management. With continuous improvements in AI and computer vision technology,
the system can adapt to a wide range of users, from beginners to advanced athletes,
providing customized feedback and progress tracking. This could transform the way in-
dividuals engage with their fitness goals, making training more accessible, data-driven,
and effective in achieving long-term health benefits.

26
 Chapter 5
Results & Analysis
The chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of the results achieved by the hand
gesture-based gym training system, showcasing its ability to detect and analyze exer-
cises such as push-ups, planks, and dumbbell curls with remarkable accuracy. By lever-
aging advanced technologies like MediaPipe and OpenCV, the system offers real-time
pose estimation and motion tracking, ensuring users receive precise feedback on their
exercise form. The innovative gesture-based interface eliminates the need for external
input devices, creating a seamless and interactive user experience for exercise selec-
tion. Detailed visual outputs highlight correct and incorrect postures, demonstrating
the system’s capability to differentiate between optimal and suboptimal forms. Metrics
such as alignment accuracy and gesture detection precision underline the robustness
and reliability of the implementation.

5.1 Hand Gesture Recognition Results

5.1.1 Gesture Detection for Exercise Selection

The system is designed to provide a touch-screen-like experience by dividing the screen
into distinct interactive sections. When a user’s finger enters a specific section, the
corresponding exercise is selected. This innovative approach enhances user interaction
without requiring external input devices, such as physical touchscreens. Figures 5.1 ,
5.2 , 5.3 and 5.4 demonstrate the correct detection of gestures within designated sections
to select exercises.

Figure 5.2: Finger in the push-up

Figure 5.1: Model selection screen.
selection section.

27
Chapter 5. Results & Analysis

Figure 5.3: Finger in the plank Figure 5.4: Finger in the bicep-curl
selection section. selection section.

5.1.2 Incorrect Section Interaction

In some cases, fingers entering overlapping or undefined sections lead to incorrect or

unregistered selections. These scenarios prompt users to reposition their fingers within
the correct sections. Figures 5.5 and 5.6 illustrate examples of incorrect interactions
where gestures were either misclassified or ambiguous.

Figure 5.5: No selection due to Figure 5.6: No input detected from

overlapping gestures from both hands. non-hand body parts.

The system’s innovative use of screen sections to simulate touch-screen function-

ality demonstrates a high degree of accuracy in mapping finger positions to interactive
areas for exercise selection. Cases of misclassification, while infrequent, underline the
importance of ensuring clear section boundaries and consistent lighting conditions. This
touch-free interface design offers an accessible and intuitive user experience, paving the
way for further improvements in precision and adaptability.

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 5.2. Push-Up Detection Results

5.2 Push-Up Detection Results

5.2.1 Correct Postures

The system accurately identifies proper push-up form, ensuring alignment of the body.
Figure 5.7 and Figure 5.8 show correct push-up detections.

Figure 5.7: Correct body alignment in Figure 5.8: Proper push-up posture
a push-up (Front view). captured (Elbow at 90°).

5.2.2 Incorrect Postures

The system flags incorrect push-up postures. Examples include improper body align-
ment and insufficient depth. Figure 5.9 and Figure 5.10 demonstrate these cases.

Figure 5.9: Misaligned body during Figure 5.10: Push-up with insufficient
push-up. depth.

5.3 Plank Detection Results

5.3.1 Correct Postures

The system successfully recognizes proper plank postures, as shown in Figure 5.11 and
Figure 5.12.

29
Chapter 5. Results & Analysis

Figure 5.11: Straight back and hip

Figure 5.12: Proper elbow placement.
alignment.

5.3.2 Incorrect Postures

Figure 5.13 and Figure 5.14 illustrate common mistakes such as hip sagging or exces-
sive raising.

Figure 5.13: Excessively raised hips. Figure 5.14: Sagging hips.

5.4 Dumbbell Curl Detection Results

5.4.1 Correct Postures
The detection of correct biceps curl forms is shown in Figure 5.15 and Figure 5.16.
Proper form includes keeping the elbow stationary and full range of motion.

Figure 5.15: Stationary elbow. Figure 5.16: Full range of motion.

30
 5.5. Summary of Results

5.4.2 Incorrect Postures

The system identifies errors such as swinging the body or incomplete curling, as shown
in Figure 5.17 and Figure 5.18.

Figure 5.17: Swinging body motion. Figure 5.18: Partial range of motion.

5.5 Summary of Results

The implemented system demonstrates robust real-time posture and exercise monitor-
ing capabilities, marking a significant step towards creating an interactive and efficient
fitness training solution. By leveraging the capabilities of MediaPipe and OpenCV, the
system achieves high accuracy in pose estimation and motion tracking, ensuring reliable
detection and analysis of user movements during exercises.
For each exercise, the system efficiently differentiates between correct and incorrect
postures. It provides detailed feedback, enabling users to improve their form and reduce
the risk of injuries. This is especially evident in exercises like planks and push-ups,
where maintaining proper alignment is crucial for engaging the target muscle groups.
The real-time corrective feedback ensures users can make immediate adjustments to
their posture, fostering better workout efficiency and effectiveness.
The gesture-based interface also adds to the system’s interactivity by allowing users
to select exercises intuitively. By mapping finger positions to specific on-screen sec-
tions, the system simulates a touch-screen selection experience, eliminating the need
for external input devices and enhancing user convenience.

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 Chapter 6
Conclusion & Future Scope

6.1 Conclusion
Real-Time Pose-Based Interactive Fitness Assistant project demonstrates the integra-
tion of computer vision technologies, specifically OpenCV and MediaPipe, to create an
interactive and intelligent fitness training system. Real-time pose detection and gesture
recognition provide users with immediate feedback on their workout form, aiding in
posture correction and injury prevention. This system offers a cost-effective alternative
to traditional personal training, making fitness guidance more accessible for home use.
By combining OpenCV’s image processing capabilities with MediaPipe’s machine
learning models, precise tracking of key body landmarks is achieved, allowing the sys-
tem to evaluate and correct exercises such as planks, push-ups, and bicep curls. Visual
and audio feedback further enhances the user experience by providing real-time correc-
tions.
Future developments could include features such as simultaneous tracking of mul-
tiple users, voice recognition for personalized coaching, and an expanded exercise
database. Additionally, optimizing the system for mobile devices could broaden its
accessibility and functionality.
The Pose-Based Fitness Trainer project illustrates the potential of leveraging com-
puter vision and machine learning technologies in the fitness industry to improve exer-
cise techniques and support users in achieving their fitness goals.

6.2 Future Scope

The Real-Time Pose-Based Interactive Fitness Assistant has significant potential for
growth, with several exciting opportunities for enhancement. Integrating 3D pose es-
timation and Virtual Reality (VR) will improve posture correction and provide im-
mersive fitness experiences. Expanding to include yoga-based applications will allow
real-time feedback on yoga poses and breathing exercises, offering a holistic wellness
approach.
Developing a mobile application will provide users with on-the-go tracking and
personalized workout suggestions, improving accessibility. Integration with wearable
devices like smartwatches will offer real-time physiological data, complementing pos-
ture detection for more accurate feedback.
The addition of AI-driven feedback mechanisms will provide personalized perfor-

33
Chapter 6. Conclusion & Future Scope

mance insights, injury prevention tips, and real-time guidance during workouts. Gam-
ification features, such as challenges, leaderboards, and social sharing, will boost user
engagement and motivation.
AI-powered personalization will adapt workouts based on user goals, progress, and
medical history, ensuring a tailored experience. The system can also be expanded for
healthcare applications, such as physical therapy and rehabilitation, allowing remote
monitoring of patients and supporting recovery.
To reach a broader audience, the system can introduce multilingual support and
lightweight versions for low-resource devices. Collaborations with fitness brands can
further integrate the system into existing fitness ecosystems, expanding its impact.
These advancements will transform the Real-Time Pose-Based Interactive Fitness
Assistant into a comprehensive, accessible solution for fitness, wellness, and rehabilita-
tion.

34
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