I successfully Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
A runner
After a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?
Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.
Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she requested it to design a plan merging running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.
Leah then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a race.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.
This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching
A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard memberships.
Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.
Customers will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Personal Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training offers.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ AI.
"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 want personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.
The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more effective.
But, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.
For many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
