I successfully Exchanged My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
A runner
Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.
However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules
One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.
This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.
She used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.
She said she asked it to create a regimen merging running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her race date and goals.
The user then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Remarkable Fitness Gains
Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.
Richard turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created organized workouts.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.
The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching
A recent study in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard full-access plans.
Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.
Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.
Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.
A personal trainer
The Essential Personal Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also use AI.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.
"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more effective.
But, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.
"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.
