I Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.
She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.
She explained she requested it to design a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.
The user then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions 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 AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Fitness Gains
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said.
The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training
One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic memberships.
Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.
Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.
Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Human Element
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 live training provides.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also use technology.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.
The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.
But, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.