I successfully Replaced My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
A runner
After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.
She said she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.
Leah then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.
Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Fitness Gains
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he said.
This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training
One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.
Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Personal Touch
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also use AI.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.
The trainer said AI can educate clients and make guidance more effective.
However, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
