I Exchanged My Own Personal Trainer for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
A runner
After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules
Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.
She used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.
She said she requested it to design a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.
Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Improvements
Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
He resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching
A recent study in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic memberships.
Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Clients typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Personal Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ technology.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.
The trainer explained AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.
However, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.