I Swapped My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?
Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.
Leah relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.
She explained she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.
Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.
"I realized I had to sort myself out," he commented.
This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored 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
One recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic memberships.
Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Personal Touch
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also use AI.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.
"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more efficient.
But, he said true dedication comes when people show up 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," he added.
For many, he suggested, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
