I Exchanged My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?
Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.
She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she requested it to create a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her race date and goals.
Leah then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Remarkable Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.
He resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching
A recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard memberships.
Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Customers will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Personal Touch
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more efficient.
But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person 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," Dafydd concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
