🔗 Share this article

Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.

She explained she requested it to design a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

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

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also employ technology.

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

"I think the more people are online the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

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

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

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

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.