I Exchanged My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.
She said she requested it to design a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her race date and goals.
Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.
The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable 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 human personal trainer.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Gains
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.
He resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said.
This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching
One recent study in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on basic memberships.
Prices started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Clients will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Human Touch
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 responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.
"I think the more people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.
Dafydd explained AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.
However, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
For many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.