I successfully Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for AI – With Great Results.

A runner

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.

"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more effective.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.