I successfully Swapped My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.
She explained she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.
Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.
"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Remarkable 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, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training
One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.
Prices started at £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.
According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.
Clients typically use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Personal Touch
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ AI.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.
The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more efficient.
However, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
