I successfully Swapped My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.
She said she requested it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.
Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, 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 minute faster than her target finish.
She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Remarkable Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he said.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training
One recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic memberships.
Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to £132 at the highest-priced.
Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.
Customers will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Touch
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also use technology.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.
The trainer said AI can educate users and make coaching more effective.
But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
