I Exchanged My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – With Great Results.
A runner
After a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.
However, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines
One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.
This young woman from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.
She explained she requested it to design a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.
Leah then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.
The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.
"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Improvements
Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.
He resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.
"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching
One recent study in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard memberships.
Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.
Customers will often hire a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Personal Touch
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also use AI.
"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.
"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.
Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more effective.
But, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.
"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.