🔗 Share this article I successfully Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective. A runner She used artificial intelligence to prepare for her latest half marathon and secured a new record. Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum. However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches? Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon. The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer. Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years. She explained she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals. The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical. The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time. She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor. "With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added. A weightlifter He has been using AI for his workout and nutrition, and states he has never been stronger. Remarkable Fitness Gains In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg. Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event. "I realized I need to get myself in shape," he said. The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, 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 One recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans. Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive. Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital. Customers will often hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are completely flexible. Dafydd Judd Fitness expert one professional believes AI will cannot replicate the personal bond that comes from in-person training. The Irreplaceable Personal Touch Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides. The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also use AI. "I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said. "I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued. The trainer said AI can inform users and make guidance more effective. However, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for training. "No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added. In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.