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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, could AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

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

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

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

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence 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 over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

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