I Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.
She said she asked it to design a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.
The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.
She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Gains
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching
One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.
Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.
According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers will often hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Element
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ AI.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information 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 comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.
Dafydd said AI can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.
But, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
