I successfully Replaced My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?
Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.
She relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She said she asked it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her race date and goals.
Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
He resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching
One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic memberships.
Fees started at £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.
Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Human Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also use technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.
The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more effective.
However, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.
In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
