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Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he said.

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for standard full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also use AI.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.

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

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more efficient.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

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