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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

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

She used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic memberships.

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

Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

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 Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also use technology.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

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

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.

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

For many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.