I successfully Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.
Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she requested it to create a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.
The user then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Remarkable Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training
One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.
Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in London.
Clients typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Element
Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more effective.
However, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
