I Replaced My Fitness Coach for AI – With Great Results.

A runner

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter January aiming 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 Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

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

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to design a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then tweaked the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.

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

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added.

The trainer said 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 7am before work," Dafydd added.

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