I successfully Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-powered fitness application 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 design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.
Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching
A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic memberships.
Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Personal Touch
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, 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 missing from a machine," he added.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.
But, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
