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

A runner

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

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also employ technology.

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

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more efficient.

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.