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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

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

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said 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 gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

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

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.

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

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients typically use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

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

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

The trainer said AI can educate users and make coaching more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.