I Replaced My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.
She said she requested it to create a plan merging running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her event day and goals.
Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said 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 race.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.
This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created organized workouts.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training
A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.
Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.
Clients will often use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ technology.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.
The trainer explained AI can educate users and make coaching more effective.
But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.
For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
