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A runner

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic memberships.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ AI.

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

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more effective.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.