I Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.

A runner

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said.

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.

Dafydd said AI can educate clients and make guidance more efficient.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, 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 leave phones behind and take a break from technology.