I Exchanged My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.

An individual using a mobile device for AI-driven running guidance A runner
She employed AI to train for her latest half marathon and secured a new record.

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
An individual training with barbells after using an AI plan Richard Gallimore
Richard Gallimore has been leveraging artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and states he feels stronger than ever.

Remarkable 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 reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he said.

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized 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 Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent study in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer assisting a client in a gym Dafydd Judd
Fitness expert Dafydd Judd maintains AI will never replace the personal bond that comes from in-person training.

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more effective.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.

For many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.

Kristina Wang
Kristina Wang

A passionate writer and mindfulness coach who shares insights on creativity and self-discovery through journaling.