I successfully Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.
She explained she asked it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.
Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.
He turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he said.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching
One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.
Prices started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.
According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.
Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Human Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.
"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.
But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
