I Swapped My Personal Trainer for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.
But, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?
Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines
One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.
Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.
She said she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.
Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.
A weightlifter
Significant Fitness Gains
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.
Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.
"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.
This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.
"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.
The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training
A recent survey in the previous year compared costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard memberships.
Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.
Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.
Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.
Dafydd Judd
The Essential Personal Element
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training provides.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.
"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he said.
"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.
The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more effective.
But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he added.
For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.
