I Exchanged My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.
However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.
She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She said she requested it to create a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.
The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.
She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Fitness Improvements
Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
He resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he said.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching
A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.
Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers typically use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Personal Element
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training offers.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.
Dafydd explained AI can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.
But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.
For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
