I successfully Swapped My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.
But, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.
She explained she requested it to design a regimen merging running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.
She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.
He turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training
One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.
Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Clients will often use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Human Touch
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.
The trainer said AI can inform users and make guidance more efficient.
However, he said 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 7am before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
