I Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
A runner
Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.
She said she requested it to design a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.
The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose 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 noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Strength Improvements
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.
"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching
A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard full-access plans.
Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.
According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Human Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also use technology.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.
The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more effective.
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," he added.
For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
