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

A runner

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen merging running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her race date and goals.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more effective.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.