I Exchanged My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
A runner
Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.
However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?
Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines
Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.
She said she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her race date and goals.
The user then adjusted the schedule to fit 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 ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.
She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Gains
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a race.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching
A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.
Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest 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 outside London and about a similar range in London.
Customers typically use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Human Touch
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training offers.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also use AI.
"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more effective.
However, he argued 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 early morning before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
