I successfully Exchanged My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.

A runner

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

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

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

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from 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 sort myself out," he commented.

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.

Dafydd said AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.

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