I Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines
One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.
She explained she requested it to design a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and objectives.
The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
He turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.
"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 created organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training
One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic full-access plans.
Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Customers will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Personal Touch
Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also use technology.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.
"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.
But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
