I successfully Exchanged My Own Personal Trainer for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
A runner
Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.
She explained she requested it to design a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.
Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.
Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.
She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Gains
Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
He resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training
One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic memberships.
Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.
According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in London.
Clients typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Human Element
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.
The trainer explained AI can inform users and make guidance more effective.
However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
