I Replaced My Fitness Coach for AI – With Great Results.
Leah Walsh
After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She said she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her race date and goals.
The user then tweaked the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Improvements
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.
He turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.
"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, 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. Conventional Training
One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard memberships.
Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients typically hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ AI.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more effective.
However, he said true dedication 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 cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.
For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
