I successfully Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?
Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.
She said she asked it to design a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and objectives.
The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Strength Gains
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.
Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.
The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training
A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard memberships.
Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.
According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.
Clients will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Element
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ technology.
"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.
"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.
The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more effective.
However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
