I successfully Replaced My Personal Trainer for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.

A person using a smartphone for AI-powered running coaching Leah Walsh
Leah employed artificial intelligence to train for her latest half marathon and achieved a new record.

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to create a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
An individual training with weights after using an AI plan A weightlifter
Richard Gallimore has been using AI for his workout and nutrition, and says he has never been stronger.

Significant Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

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

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer working with a trainee in a gym Dafydd Judd
Fitness expert Dafydd Judd believes artificial intelligence will never replace the personal bond that comes from face-to-face coaching.

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

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

John Price
John Price

Wildlife biologist and photographer specializing in sloth behavior and rainforest ecosystems, with over a decade of field research experience.