I successfully Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.

Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She said she requested it to design a regimen merging running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application 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 wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.

"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he commented.

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created structured routines.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year compared costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically hire a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his trainees also use technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.