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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

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

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

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

She said she asked it to create a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers will often use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also use AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he said.

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

The trainer said AI can educate 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 computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

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