I Exchanged My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.
She said she requested it to create a regimen merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.
Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he said.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training
A recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on standard full-access plans.
Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers will often use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Human Touch
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.
The trainer explained AI can educate users and make coaching more efficient.
However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
