🔗 Share this article

A runner

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

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

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

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

Clients typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.

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

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd explained AI can educate clients and make guidance more efficient.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

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

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