I Swapped My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?
Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.
She relied on an AI-driven fitness application 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 merging running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her event day and goals.
The user then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.
"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching
One recent study in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.
Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Customers will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Essential Human Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also use technology.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.
"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.
The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.
But, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he added.
For many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
