I successfully Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines
One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.
She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she asked it to create a plan combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.
The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training
A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.
Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Clients typically use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Human Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.
"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.
The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more effective.
However, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
