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A runner

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

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.

The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also use technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.

"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 machine," he continued.

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

However, 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 computer 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 disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.