I Exchanged My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.
She said she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.
The user then tweaked the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.
She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Improvements
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he said.
The free tool constructed 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 added.
The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training
A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans.
Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Clients typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Human Touch
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ AI.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.
"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.
Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more effective.
But, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
For many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
