I successfully Replaced My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.
She explained she requested it to create a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.
The user then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.
She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Gains
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.
He resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he said.
The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training
A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.
Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, 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.
Clients will often hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Personal Touch
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also use AI.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.
But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up physically for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
