I successfully Exchanged My Own Personal Trainer for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.
This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.
She said she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.
Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.
The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Gains
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he said.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching
One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for basic memberships.
Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Customers will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Personal Touch
Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training 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, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd explained AI can inform users and make guidance more effective.
But, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.
For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
