I successfully Replaced My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.

An individual using a mobile device for AI-powered running coaching Leah Walsh
She used artificial intelligence to train for her latest 21km race and secured a new record.

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to design a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
An individual working out with barbells after using an AI-generated program Richard Gallimore
He has been using artificial intelligence for his workout and nutrition, and says he feels stronger than ever.

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.

"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A fitness coach assisting a trainee in a gym Dafydd Judd
Personal trainer one professional maintains AI will cannot replicate the personal bond that comes from in-person training.

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.
"I believe 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 machine," he continued.

Dafydd said AI can educate clients and make coaching more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.

James Simpson
James Simpson

A tech journalist and digital strategist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and their impact on daily life.