🔗 Share this article I Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Effective. A runner She employed AI to train for her second half marathon and achieved a new record. After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track. However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers? Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines Leah Walsh used 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 freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach. She used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years. She explained she asked it to design a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and goals. Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient. Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish. She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer. "Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added. Richard Gallimore He has been leveraging AI for his workout and nutrition, and says he feels stronger than ever. Significant Fitness Improvements Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load. He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event. "I just knew I had to sort myself out," he said. This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts. "I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added. The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training A recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic memberships. Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive. According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in London. Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable. Dafydd Judd Personal trainer one professional believes AI will never replace the human connection that comes from face-to-face coaching. The Irreplaceable Human Element Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers. This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ technology. "In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated. "I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added. Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more effective. However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up in person for training. "As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added. In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.