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

Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training

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 a month, for basic memberships.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients typically use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also use AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

Dafydd explained AI can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.