I Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.

Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.

"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also use technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more effective.

But, he said real commitment comes when people appear 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," Dafydd added.

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