I Replaced My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
A runner
After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.
However, could AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.
She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.
She said she asked it to design a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her race date and goals.
The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.
She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Improvements
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.
This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training
One recent study in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on standard memberships.
Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Element
Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.
The trainer explained AI can educate users and make coaching 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 computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
