I successfully Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.
However, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?
Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines
One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.
She relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her race date and goals.
Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.
She said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Gains
In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
He resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I realized I had to sort myself out," he said.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created organized workouts.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training
A recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard full-access plans.
Prices started at £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.
Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers will often use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Human Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also use AI.
"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added.
Dafydd explained AI can educate clients and make guidance more efficient.
However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
