I Replaced My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.
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 2024.
She said she requested it to design a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.
Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.
She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.
"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Remarkable Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he said.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training
One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard full-access plans.
Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.
According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients will often use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Personal Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also use AI.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more effective.
However, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
