I successfully Swapped My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.

A runner

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard memberships.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

For many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.