I Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?
Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.
Leah used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her event day and goals.
Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.
The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable 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.
"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Fitness Gains
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
He turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training
A recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic memberships.
Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.
Customers typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Human Element
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ AI.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.
"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.
Dafydd explained AI can inform users and make guidance more efficient.
However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
