I successfully Replaced My Own Personal Trainer for AI – With Great Results.

A runner

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.

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

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also use AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

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

The trainer explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.