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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

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

She explained she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, 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 employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

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

This no-cost application constructed 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 noticeable change," he added.

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also use AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more effective.

But, he argued true dedication 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 fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.