I successfully Replaced My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Working.
A runner
Following a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.
But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.
She said she requested it to create a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.
Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.
The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Strength Improvements
Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training
A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.
Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients typically hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Touch
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training provides.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also use AI.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.
Dafydd said AI can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.
But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
