I successfully Exchanged My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.
She said she requested it to design a regimen merging running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.
Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Fitness Gains
Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
He resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he said.
This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training
One recent study in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.
Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Human Element
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also use technology.
"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.
Dafydd explained AI can educate clients and make coaching more effective.
However, he said 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.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
