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

Leah Walsh

After a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed 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 long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he said.

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he said.

"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 missing from a computer," he added.

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person 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 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.