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A runner

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her race date and goals.

The user then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she did not want 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

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

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

Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

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

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.