I successfully Exchanged My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.
However, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.
Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.
She said she asked it to create a regimen merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and goals.
The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.
The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.
This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training
One recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.
Prices started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.
Customers will often use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ AI.
"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.
The trainer explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.
But, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
