I successfully Exchanged My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.

A runner

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a plan combining running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often hire a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ technology.

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

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth 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 true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

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