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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

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

This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She said she requested it to create a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing 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 realized I had to get myself in shape," he said.

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in the previous year compared costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on basic memberships.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.

The trainer explained AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.