I Replaced My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Working.
A runner
After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.
However, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines
Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.
She said she requested it to design a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.
Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.
She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I realized I had to sort myself out," he said.
The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching
A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.
Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.
Customers will often hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these arrangements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Personal Element
Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ technology.
"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.
The trainer said AI can educate users and make coaching more effective.
But, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.