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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

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

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent study in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients typically use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

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

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

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.