I successfully Exchanged My 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 looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training

One recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more effective.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.