🔗 Share this article I Exchanged My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective. Leah Walsh Leah employed AI to prepare for her latest 21km race and secured a personal best. After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum. However, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers? Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon. The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer. Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years. She said she requested it to create a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her event day and goals. The user then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient. Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time. She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer. "Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added. A weightlifter Richard Gallimore has been using AI for his workout and nutrition, and says he has never been stronger. Remarkable Fitness Gains Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load. He resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event. "I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he commented. The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created structured routines. "I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added. The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training One recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for standard full-access plans. Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive. Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London. Clients will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible. Dafydd Judd Fitness expert one professional believes AI will never replace the personal bond that comes from in-person training. The Essential Personal Element Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection 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 said a number of his clients also employ AI. "I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said. "I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued. The trainer said AI can inform users and make coaching more efficient. However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for training. "As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added. For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.