I successfully Swapped My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.

Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he said.

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also use technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added.

The trainer explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.