Abstract: Detecting quality of use of an exercise machine includes detecting a path of an actuator over time during use of the exercise machine. It further includes characterize the path including generating at least one parameter associated with the path. It further includes comparing the at least one parameter associated with the detected path to a canonical parameter. Providing feedback on quality of use of an exercise machine includes determining a quality of a use of the exercise machine. The quality of the use of the exercise machine is determined based at least in part on a detected path of an actuator over time. It further includes performing an action that is based at least in part on the determined quality of the use of the exercise machine.