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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

He resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also employ AI.

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

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

But, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

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

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