I Replaced My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Working.
A runner
After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.
This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.
She said she requested it to design a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching
One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard full-access plans.
Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.
Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Personal Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use technology.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he said.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.
The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more efficient.
But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
