I successfully Replaced My Fitness Coach for AI – With Great Results.

Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created organized workouts.

"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.

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

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also use AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up 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.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.