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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She said she requested it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his trainees also use AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.

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

The trainer said AI can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.

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

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.