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A runner

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to design a plan merging running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

The user then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.

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

Dafydd said AI can inform users and make guidance more effective.

However, he argued true dedication 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," 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.