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A runner

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, could AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

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

She used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he said.

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

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

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.

But, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.