I Replaced My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.
She used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.
She said she asked it to create a plan merging running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.
The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.
She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.
He resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.
"I realized I had to sort myself out," he said.
This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching
One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for basic memberships.
Fees started at £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.
According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about a similar range in London.
Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Personal Element
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also use AI.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge 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 added.
The trainer explained AI can educate users and make guidance more efficient.
But, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.
"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.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
