I successfully Exchanged My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.
She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.
Leah 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 consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Improvements
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.
He resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.
This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching
One recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard full-access plans.
Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.
Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ AI.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.
The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.
However, 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 digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
