🔗 Share this article I successfully Exchanged My Own Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Effective. A runner She employed AI to train for her latest 21km race and achieved a new record. Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum. But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers? Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon. The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach. Leah used an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024. She explained she asked it to design a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her race date and goals. Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described 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 said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor. "With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added. A weightlifter Richard Gallimore has been using AI for his workout and nutrition, and states he feels stronger than ever. Significant Fitness Improvements Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg. He resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event. "I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he said. This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established structured routines. "I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said. The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on standard memberships. Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced. Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in London. Customers will often hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible. A personal trainer Personal trainer Dafydd Judd believes artificial intelligence will cannot replicate the human connection that comes from face-to-face coaching. The Essential Personal Element Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides. This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ AI. "In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said. "I think the more people are online the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added. The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more efficient. However, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions. "No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added. For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.