I successfully Replaced My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.
However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.
She said she requested it to design a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.
She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching
A recent survey in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard full-access plans.
Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.
Clients typically use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Touch
Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I believe 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.
The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more efficient.
But, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
