I Exchanged My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Working.
A runner
Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.
She explained she asked it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.
Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Remarkable Strength Gains
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, 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 bench press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching
One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.
Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.
Clients will often hire a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Essential Human Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant 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 recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also use technology.
"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I think the more people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.
The trainer explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.
But, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
