I Exchanged My Own Fitness Coach for AI – With Great Results.
Leah Walsh
After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she requested it to design a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.
The user then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.
The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.
"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Gains
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.
He resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training
A recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for standard memberships.
Fees ranged from a lower price 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 session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.
Customers will often use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Element
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also use technology.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.
"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.
Dafydd said AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.
However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically 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 concluded.
For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
