I successfully Exchanged My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.
This young woman from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.
Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.
She said she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.
She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Improvements
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
He turned to a AI assistant 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 personalized to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching
A recent survey in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around ÂŁ38 a month, for basic full-access plans.
Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about ÂŁ45-ÂŁ65 in the capital.
Customers will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Element
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ AI.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.
"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd explained AI can educate users and make coaching more effective.
But, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.
For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.