I Swapped My Own Personal Trainer for AI – With Great Results.

A runner

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

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

Leah then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he said.

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

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful 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 said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.