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A runner

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

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

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk 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 established structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent survey in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard memberships.

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

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, 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 AI.

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

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.

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