I Exchanged My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period filled with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.
However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.
Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she requested it to create a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.
She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Fitness Gains
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.
"I realized I had to sort myself out," he commented.
This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training
A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.
Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Customers will often hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Essential Human Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.
The trainer explained AI can educate clients and make coaching more effective.
But, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.
For many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
