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A runner

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application 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 felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

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

The user then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

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

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

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also use AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.

The trainer explained AI can educate clients and make coaching more effective.

However, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.