I Exchanged My Fitness Coach for AI – With Great Results.
Leah Walsh
After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.
She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.
She said she requested it to create a plan combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.
Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. 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 actually prefer," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.
He resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.
"I realized I had to sort myself out," he commented.
This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created organized workouts.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," 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 average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic memberships.
Prices started at £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients typically hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Human Element
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ AI.
"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.
The trainer explained AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.
However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
For many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
