I successfully Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
A runner
After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.
But, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.
This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.
Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.
Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.
Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
He turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.
"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said.
This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching
One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard full-access plans.
Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients will often use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Touch
Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also use technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.
The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.
However, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
