I successfully Replaced My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute 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 used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.
She explained she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.
Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Remarkable Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.
He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training
A recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans.
Fees started at £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.
According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Clients will often use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Element
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.
"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.
The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more effective.
But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.
For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
