I successfully Exchanged My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules
Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she requested it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.
The user then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.
The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable 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 quite like," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.
He resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.
This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching
A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.
Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Clients will often hire a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Human Element
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use AI.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.
The trainer explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.
But, 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 computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.
For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
