I Swapped My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.
But, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules
One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.
This young woman from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something 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 explained she asked it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.
Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable 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 live instructor.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Strength Gains
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.
This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching
One recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard full-access plans.
Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.
Clients typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use technology.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, 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 warmth from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.
The trainer said AI can educate clients and make coaching more effective.
However, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.
For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.