I Replaced My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.
But, could AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.
She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She said she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.
The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.
She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.
"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.
This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training
One recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic full-access plans.
Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.
According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Personal Touch
Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, 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 over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also use technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.
The trainer explained AI can educate users and make guidance more effective.
However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up physically for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
