I Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
A runner
Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.
Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.
She explained she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.
The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Strength Gains
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training
One recent study in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for standard memberships.
Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Human Element
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also employ technology.
"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.
"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.
Dafydd said AI can educate users and make coaching more efficient.
But, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
