I Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.

Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.

"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in the previous year analyzed prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also use AI.

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

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.

The trainer explained AI can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer 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 disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.