I Exchanged My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
Following a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.
However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.
Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.
She said she requested it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.
Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.
She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Improvements
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
He resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.
"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training
One recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard full-access plans.
Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients will often hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Human Element
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ AI.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.
"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.
Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more efficient.
However, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer 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.
