I Exchanged My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-powered running app 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 design a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.
The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.
The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.
She said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Remarkable Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, 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 unable to run a race.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he said.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training
One recent survey in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for standard full-access plans.
Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.
Customers will often hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Human Touch
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.
The trainer explained AI can educate users and make guidance more efficient.
However, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.
For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
