I successfully Exchanged My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
A runner
After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.
She said she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her race date and goals.
The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.
Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
He resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching
One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.
Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.
Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.
Customers will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Touch
Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ AI.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.
"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.
The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more effective.
But, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.
For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
