I successfully Replaced My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – With Great Results.

Leah Walsh

After a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she chose 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 noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.

"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also use technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added.

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

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.