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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

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

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

She used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to design a regimen merging running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

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

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he commented.

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients typically use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ technology.

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

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.

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