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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a plan merging running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

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

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.

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