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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

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

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and objectives.

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

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he commented.

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

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.

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

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

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

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.

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

Dafydd said AI can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.