I Swapped My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – With Great Results.

A runner

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.

The free tool built a workout and diet plan 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 Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

However, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.