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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to create a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

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

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

"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices 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 cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think 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 want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.