I successfully Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
A runner
Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.
She explained she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.
The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.
She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Remarkable Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.
He turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created organized workouts.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching
A recent study in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard memberships.
Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.
Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ technology.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.
Dafydd said AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.
However, he argued 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 7am before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
