I successfully Replaced My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She said she requested it to design a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. 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 quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
He resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.
This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching
A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans.
Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.
Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in London.
Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Personal Element
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use technology.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd explained AI can inform users and make guidance more efficient.
However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
