I successfully Swapped My Personal Trainer for AI – With Great Results.

An individual using a smartphone for AI-powered fitness coaching Leah Walsh
She used AI to train for her second 21km race and secured a new record.

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.
An individual training with weights after using an AI plan A weightlifter
Richard Gallimore has been leveraging AI for his workout and nutrition, and states he feels stronger than ever.

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he commented.

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A fitness coach working with a client in a fitness studio A personal trainer
Fitness expert Dafydd Judd believes artificial intelligence will cannot replicate the human connection that comes from in-person training.

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer said AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.

Evelyn Wheeler
Evelyn Wheeler

A financial analyst with over a decade of experience in precious metals markets, specializing in investment strategies and economic forecasting.