I Swapped My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
However, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?
Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she requested it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.
Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Gains
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
He resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I realized I had to sort myself out," he said.
This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching
One recent study in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on standard full-access plans.
Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.
According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.
Customers will often use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Human Touch
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also use technology.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more effective.
But, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
