I successfully Exchanged My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
A runner
Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.
She said she requested it to design a regimen merging running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.
The user then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.
She noted she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Strength Improvements
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
He turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.
"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training
One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on standard full-access plans.
Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients typically use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Personal Touch
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ AI.
"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.
"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd explained AI can educate clients 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 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
