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A runner

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

However, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.

"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for basic memberships.

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

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial 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 over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he said.

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

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

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

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.