I successfully Replaced My Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.

A runner

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard memberships.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can educate users and make coaching more effective.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.