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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

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

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.

"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he said.

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

"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.

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

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

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

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

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

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

"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," Dafydd concluded.

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