🔗 Share this article I successfully Replaced My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working. Leah Walsh She employed AI to prepare for her second half marathon and achieved a new record. Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track. But, could AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches? Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon. This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach. She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years. She said she asked it to create a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and objectives. The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient. Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time. 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 added. Richard Gallimore He has been leveraging artificial intelligence for his workout and nutrition, and states he feels stronger than ever. Significant Fitness Improvements Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to 110kg. He turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race. "I realized I need to get myself in shape," he said. The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts. "I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added. The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for standard memberships. Prices started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive. Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital. Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible. Dafydd Judd Fitness expert Dafydd Judd believes AI will never replace the human connection that comes from face-to-face coaching. The Essential Personal Touch Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training offers. The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also use technology. "I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said. "I think the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added. The trainer said AI can inform clients and make coaching more efficient. However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for training. "No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added. In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.