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

A person utilizing a mobile device for AI-driven running guidance Leah Walsh
Leah used artificial intelligence to train for her latest 21km race and achieved a personal best.

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to create a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.
An individual working out with weights after using an AI-generated program Richard Gallimore
Richard Gallimore has been leveraging AI for his workout and nutrition, and states he feels stronger than ever.

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he said.

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for standard memberships.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A fitness coach working with a trainee in a gym Dafydd Judd
Fitness expert Dafydd Judd maintains artificial intelligence will never replace the personal bond that comes from in-person training.

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.
"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.

The trainer explained AI can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.

Ashley Marquez
Ashley Marquez

A tech journalist with a passion for exploring emerging technologies and their impact on society.