I successfully Swapped My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.
But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?
Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.
Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.
She said she requested it to create a plan merging running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.
The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.
The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.
She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training
A recent study in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.
Fees started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also use AI.
"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.
"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd explained AI can educate users and make coaching more efficient.
But, he argued real commitment 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 7am before work," he added.
For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
