I successfully Swapped My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.
However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural 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 tailored to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.
The following year, she chose a different tool 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 did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Strength Gains
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.
This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training
A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic memberships.
Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Clients typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Personal Touch
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training offers.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.
"I think the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.
Dafydd said AI can inform users and make coaching more efficient.
But, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
