I successfully Exchanged My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.
She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.
She said she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Remarkable Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.
Richard turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.
This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching
A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans.
Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.
Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Personal Element
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use technology.
"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd explained AI can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.
But, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
