I successfully Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.
But, could AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.
She said she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her race date and goals.
The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.
She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Gains
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
He turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he said.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training
A recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for standard full-access plans.
Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.
Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London 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, however these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Touch
Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also use AI.
"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I think the more that 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 explained AI can educate clients and make guidance more effective.
But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up physically for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
