I successfully Replaced My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Effective.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.
The 21-year-old hailing 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 traditional coach.
She used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.
She said she requested it to design a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.
The user then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.
She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Strength Gains
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.
This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching
A recent study in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.
Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Touch
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ AI.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.
"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.
Dafydd said AI can educate clients and make guidance more effective.
However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, 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 leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
