I Replaced My Own Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – And It's Working.
A runner
Following a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?
Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines
Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.
This young woman from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.
She said she asked it to design a regimen merging running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.
The user then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She said 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
Remarkable Fitness Improvements
In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.
He turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.
"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.
"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training
One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.
Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.
Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.
Customers typically use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
The Irreplaceable Human Touch
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use AI.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.
"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.
Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.
But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
