I Replaced My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.
However, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah used an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.
She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.
Richard turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he said.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching
A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.
Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Touch
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ AI.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he added.
Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.
But, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he added.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.
