I successfully Swapped My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective.

Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a regimen merging running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program 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 Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.

Dafydd explained AI can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

But, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.