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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

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

Leah used an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

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

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

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

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

The trainer said AI can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.