I successfully Replaced My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave 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 regimen merging running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.
Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said 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 goal time.
She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.
"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching
One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for basic memberships.
Fees started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Personal Element
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ AI.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.
But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.
In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
