I successfully Exchanged My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.
Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.
She said she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.
Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.
She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Improvements
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
He turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.
This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I train 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 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard full-access plans.
Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Element
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ technology.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he said.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd said AI can inform clients and make guidance more effective.
But, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
