🔗 Share this article I Exchanged My Own Fitness Coach for AI – With Great Results. Leah Walsh Leah used AI to train for her latest 21km race and achieved a personal best. Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum. But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches? Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event. The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer. She used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years. She explained she requested it to create a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals. The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical. Subsequently, she chose 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 noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor. "With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added. Richard Gallimore Richard Gallimore has been leveraging AI for his workout and nutrition, and states he has never been stronger. Significant Strength Improvements Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg. Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race. "I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented. This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established structured routines. "I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added. The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships. Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the highest-priced. Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session outside London and about a similar range in the capital. Customers will often use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible. A personal trainer Fitness expert one professional maintains artificial intelligence will cannot replicate the personal bond that comes from face-to-face coaching. The Essential Human Element Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers. The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ AI. "I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said. "I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued. Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more efficient. But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions. "No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded. For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.