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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

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

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit 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 at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing 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 resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic memberships.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ AI.

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

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

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.