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A runner

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a plan combining running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.

The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.

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

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also use technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.

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

The trainer said AI can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he said real commitment 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," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.