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A runner

After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

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

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he said.

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard memberships.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

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

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he added.

The trainer said AI can educate users and make guidance more effective.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.