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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

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

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

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

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

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

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

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.