I Replaced My Own Personal Trainer for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.

Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then tweaked the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ AI.

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

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.

The trainer said AI can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

But, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.