I successfully Exchanged My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
Following 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 changing the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.
This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.
She said she requested it to design a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.
The user then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted 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
Remarkable Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he said.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching
A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on basic memberships.
Prices started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about a similar range in London.
Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Personal Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.
"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.
Dafydd explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.
However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up in person for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.
For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
