I successfully Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.
This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.
She used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.
She explained she requested it to create a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and objectives.
Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.
The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Remarkable Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training
A recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on standard full-access plans.
Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.
Customers will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Human Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ technology.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching 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 won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.
For many, he said, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
