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A runner

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

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

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

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he said.

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

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.

Customers will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.

"I think the more people are online the more they'll want human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

But, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

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

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.