I Exchanged My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.
But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.
Leah relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.
She said she asked it to design a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.
Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.
She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
He resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he said.
The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training
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, based on standard memberships.
Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in London.
Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Personal Element
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ AI.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.
The trainer explained AI can educate clients and make guidance more effective.
However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
