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

Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a regimen merging running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then tweaked 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 cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in the previous year compared costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic memberships.

Prices started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients typically hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

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

For many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.