I successfully Replaced My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.
This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.
She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.
She said she requested it to design a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.
Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Gains
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
He resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.
This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching
One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard memberships.
Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Customers typically hire 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 Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ technology.
"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.
Dafydd said AI can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.
But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.
For many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
