I Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.
She explained she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.
The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Strength Improvements
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.
"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching
One recent survey in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.
Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.
According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Human Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use AI.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.
"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.
Dafydd explained AI can inform users and make guidance more effective.
But, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
