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Leah Walsh

After a festive period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

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

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from 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.

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

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

"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 computer," he continued.

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

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

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

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