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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation 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 – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

The user then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also use technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.

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

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.