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Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

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 unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.

She explained she requested it to design a plan merging running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.

The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

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

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also use AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

But, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.