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A runner

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.

She said she requested it to design a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for standard memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also use AI.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more effective.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.