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A runner

After a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

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

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to create a plan merging running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.

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

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said 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 just knew I need to get myself in shape," he commented.

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients will often use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

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

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.