I successfully Replaced My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Working.

A runner

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She 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 create a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her race date and goals.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created organized workouts.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

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

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.

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

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.

Dafydd said AI can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up 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," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.