I successfully Exchanged My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – With Great Results.

A runner

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing 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 personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

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

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced 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 coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.

Dafydd said AI can educate users and make guidance more effective.

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.