I successfully Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a festive period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines
One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.
She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she asked it to create a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her race date and goals.
The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Gains
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he said.
The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching
One recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.
Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Personal Touch
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.
"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.
The trainer explained AI can educate users and make guidance more efficient.
But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
