Alexa Can’t Do Your Sit-Ups: Why Weight Loss Requires More Than Just Asking Google


Let’s face it, technology has made our lives easier in so many ways. Need a recipe? Alexa’s got you. Can’t remember the capital of Portugal? Google’s your BFF. But when it comes to losing weight, technology can only take you so far. Sure, Alexa can tell you how many calories are in a bagel or suggest the best high-protein snacks, but she’s not going to lace up your sneakers, go for a jog, or slap that donut out of your hand.

And yet, so many of us fall into the trap of thinking, If I just Google the right thing, the pounds will melt away! Spoiler alert: they won’t. Weight loss isn’t about finding the magic answer; it’s about applying what you already know. And while Alexa is great, she’s not a genie in a bottle who can grant you three fitness wishes. Believe me, I’ve tried.


Alexa, Can You Lose Weight for Me?

There was a time when I genuinely thought technology could solve all my problems. I remember saying, “Alexa, how do I lose 10 pounds in a week?” She responded with a chipper, “I’m sorry, I don’t have an answer for that.” Well, no kidding, Alexa. It turns out she’s not a wizard, just a glorified encyclopedia.

Even when Alexa did give me helpful advice—like suggesting intermittent fasting or explaining why kale is the Beyoncé of vegetables, it wasn’t Alexa making the changes. It was me. I had to buy the kale, eat the kale, and convince myself it didn’t taste like lawn clippings. Alexa didn’t stop me from ordering pizza at midnight or remind me to drink water instead of soda. That was all on me.


Google: The Overachieving Know-It-All

If Alexa is the friend who shrugs and says, “I don’t know, maybe try yoga,” Google is the friend who floods your inbox with 1,000 unsolicited suggestions. You ask a simple question like, “How do I lose weight?” and Google gives you 47 fad diets, 83 workout plans, and at least one bizarre tip involving apple cider vinegar and cayenne pepper.

Here’s the thing: Google has all the answers, but it doesn’t know you. It doesn’t know your habits, your challenges, or the fact that you can’t touch your toes without wincing. It can suggest a workout plan, but it can’t make you stick to it. It can recommend healthy recipes, but it won’t stop you from accidentally eating an entire bag of chips while watching Netflix.


Alexa and Google Don’t Judge, but They Don’t Cheer You On Either

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned on my weight loss journey is that you need people, real, live, human people, to cheer you on, hold you accountable, and remind you why you started in the first place.

Alexa might remind you to drink water or log your meals, but she doesn’t give pep talks. She won’t say, “Hey, I noticed you crushed your workout today—great job!” or “You’re doing amazing, keep it up!” Google might have all the answers, but it doesn’t care if you follow through.

That’s where the community comes in. A supportive group of people, whether it’s friends, family, or a dedicated weight loss community—can make all the difference. They’ll celebrate your victories, commiserate over your struggles, and remind you that you’re not alone.


The Real Magic is You

Let’s be real: we already know what it takes to lose weight. Eat better. Move more. Stay consistent. There’s no secret formula, no magic pill, and no genie granting us the body of our dreams. The hard part isn’t knowing what to do; it’s doing it.

This is where humor can save the day. When I found myself frustrated with slow progress, I’d joke, “Alexa, can you make me burn 500 calories just by sitting on the couch?” Or when I was tempted to skip a workout, I’d think, “If only Google could guilt-trip me into going to the gym.” Humor helped me lighten up, stay motivated, and remember that every small step forward mattered.


Alexa’s Funniest Fails

Not everyone has mastered the art of talking to Alexa. I once heard about someone asking, “Alexa, how do I stop craving junk food?” only for her to respond with a recipe for chocolate cake. Another person tried, “Alexa, give me tips for better workouts,” and she promptly played an audiobook on knitting techniques. And let’s not forget the time someone said, “Alexa, help me stay motivated,” and she chimed back with a weather report instead. These moments are hilarious reminders that while Alexa can provide some help, she can’t hit the treadmill for you—or stop you from eating that leftover pizza.


Why Community Beats AI Every Time

Here’s the thing: you don’t need a digital assistant to tell you what to do. You need real people to walk beside you on your journey. You need friends to laugh with when you’re struggling, cheer you on when you succeed, and hold you accountable when you feel like giving up. You need a group that truly understands your challenges, celebrates your wins, and reminds you why you started in the first place.

That’s why I created this community. It’s not just about sharing tips or celebrating milestones, it’s about building relationships, inspiring each other, and showing up for one another, every single step of the way. Together, we can do what Alexa and Google can’t: turn knowledge into action and action into lasting change. So, let’s make this a two-way street. Join the conversation. Share your story, your struggles, your breakthroughs. Ask questions, offer encouragement, and be part of something bigger than any one of us. We grow stronger when we learn from each other!

Karl Kispert

Karl is a passionate advocate for health and wellness after 60. Beginning his journey on February 14, 2024, he lost 141 pounds and embraced a lifestyle focused on commitment, accountability, and community. Through his blog, Karl shares inspiring stories, practical tips, and humor to help others reclaim their health, renew their confidence, and revive their zest for life.