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A runner

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

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

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

She explained she asked it to create a plan combining running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he commented.

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

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.

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

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.

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

For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.