🔗 Share this article I successfully Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for AI – With Great Results. Leah Walsh She used artificial intelligence to prepare for her second 21km race and achieved a personal best. Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track. But, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers? Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event. This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach. Leah used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024. She said she asked it to design a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and objectives. Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient. Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time. She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer. "With AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added. A weightlifter He has been using artificial intelligence for his workout and nutrition, and says he has never been stronger. Significant Strength Improvements Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to 110kg. Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race. "I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said. The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created structured routines. "I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added. The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching A recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans. Prices started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive. Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital. Customers will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable. Dafydd Judd Personal trainer one professional believes artificial intelligence will cannot replicate the human connection that comes from in-person training. The Essential Personal Element Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides. The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also use AI. "In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said. "I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he added. The trainer said AI can inform users and make coaching more effective. However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for training. "No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added. For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.