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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen merging running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

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

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

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.

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

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

Customers will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility 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 mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.

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

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd said AI can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.