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A runner

After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules

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

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven 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 create a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, 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 said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

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

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for basic memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also use AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.

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

The trainer explained AI can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.

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

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