I Swapped My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.

A runner

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

The user then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.

The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, 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. Traditional Coaching

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, based on standard memberships.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use technology.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd explained AI can educate users and make coaching more effective.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.