I successfully Swapped My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Working.
A runner
After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.
This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.
She explained she requested it to design a plan combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.
The user then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.
She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Gains
In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
He turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he said.
The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training
One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic memberships.
Prices started at £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the highest-priced.
Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.
Clients will often use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Personal Touch
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also use AI.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.
The trainer explained AI can educate clients and make coaching more effective.
However, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
