I successfully Replaced My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?
Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules
One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.
Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.
She explained she asked it to design a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.
Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Gains
In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, 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 resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said.
This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching
One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard full-access plans.
Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.
Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Touch
Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also use AI.
"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he said.
"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.
Dafydd said AI can inform clients and make coaching more effective.
However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.