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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

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

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

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a race.

"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he said.

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

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic memberships.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ AI.

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

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

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

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.