I successfully Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.

A runner

After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven 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 merging running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

The user then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.

"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he commented.

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more efficient.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

For many, he said, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.