I successfully Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.
But, could AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.
She said she requested it to design a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.
The user then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.
The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.
She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.
"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching
One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on basic memberships.
Prices started at £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.
Clients typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Touch
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also use AI.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.
"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.
The trainer explained AI can inform users and make coaching more efficient.
But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.
For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
