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A runner

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

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

She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he said.

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

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

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

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.

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

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more efficient.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.