I successfully Exchanged My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Working.
A runner
After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.
However, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.
She explained she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.
The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.
Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.
She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.
"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
Richard Gallimore
Significant Strength Improvements
Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he said.
The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching
One recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.
Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.
According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients typically use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Human Touch
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also use technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.
"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added.
The trainer explained AI can inform users and make coaching more efficient.
However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
