I Replaced My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.
A runner
Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules
Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She used 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 explained she asked it to design a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.
Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished 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 quite like," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Strength Improvements
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.
"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he said.
The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching
One recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for basic full-access plans.
Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.
Clients will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Personal Element
Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.
Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more effective.
But, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
