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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

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

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her race date and goals.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

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

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established 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 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic memberships.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ AI.

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

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

The trainer explained AI can inform users and make guidance more efficient.

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.