There are exercises that I can’t do, mainly due to flexibility issues, and since I can’t mark them as such, Freeletics keeps suggesting them to me.
For example, during the warm-up, it suggests “assisted standups,” but I can’t get up at all. So, I replace them with “sit-ups” and do twice the number required by the original exercise. I’m not sure if that’s the right approach.
Another example is during the cooldown phase, where it suggests “advanced quad stretch.” I’m clearly not flexible enough to do this exercise.
These are just the two most recent examples, but since they are part of the warm-up and cooldown, I can’t indicate to the “coach” that I can’t do these exercises.
So, what am I supposed to do when I’m asked to perform an exercise that I simply can’t do?
You don’t have to double the reps. Just keep training and looking for alternatives online like you’ve been doing! Sit-ups are a great option for assisted stand-ups. Also, try taking off your shoes—less elevation makes it easier. You can also practice the movement with some kipping, and hollow body rocks will help with coordination.
As you said, you can’t give feedback to the coach during warm-up and cooldown, but keep at it! One day, you’ll get there.
I imagine that I’ll gain in flexibility for exercises like the “advanced quad stretch”.
Can I do flexibility exercises in addition to my freeletics sessions or is the application really designed to be used on its own so as not to put too much strain on the body too quickly/strongly?
I recommend you to do mobility sessions almost everyday (10–15 minutes) totally apart from your Freeletics coach. I mean, with hours of difference. If you don’t have that time, I recommend you to do mobility first. You can use Freeletics app for this mobility sessions or other apps specialized in mobility and flex.
