I successfully Exchanged My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
Following a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.
However, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?
Personalized Programs 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 said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.
She relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.
She said she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.
The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training
One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on standard full-access plans.
Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers will often use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Personal Touch
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also use technology.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.
The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.
But, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
