I Swapped My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
A runner
Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.
She said she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.
Leah then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.
"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created organized workouts.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching
A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on standard memberships.
Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Human Element
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.
The trainer said AI can inform clients and make guidance more effective.
However, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.
"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 said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
