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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

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

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

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

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent study in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ AI.

"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 warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

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

However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.

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

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