I Exchanged My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.

A runner

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.

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

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes 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 senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more effective.

But, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for training.

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

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.