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A runner

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

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

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she asked it to design a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper 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 the pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

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

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.

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

But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

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