I Replaced My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – With Great Results.

Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a plan combining running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her race date and goals.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he said.

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also use AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more efficient.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.