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A runner

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

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

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

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

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

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

He turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

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

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

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

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more efficient.

But, 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 digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.