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A runner

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

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

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

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

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

Clients typically use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use technology.

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

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

Dafydd said AI can inform users and make guidance more efficient.

But, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.

"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 suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.