I Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for AI – With Great Results.

A runner

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

However, could AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

The user then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose 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 said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent survey 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 basic memberships.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also use technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.