I Replaced My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.
However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.
The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.
Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.
She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.
Richard Gallimore
Remarkable Strength Gains
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training
A recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic memberships.
Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.
Clients will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Human Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.
"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I think the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more efficient.
However, 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 cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.
For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
