I Swapped My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.
However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?
Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.
She explained she requested it to design a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.
Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished 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 find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Remarkable Strength Improvements
Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
He turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool constructed 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 added.
The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training
One recent study in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic memberships.
Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Personal Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he said.
"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.
Dafydd explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.
But, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.
For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
