I Exchanged My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.
She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.
Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.
She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.
"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
He resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.
This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training
One recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.
Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.
According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers typically use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Touch
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.
"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he added.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more efficient.
However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
