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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen merging running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

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

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

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

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

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.

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

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also use technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.

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

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

But, 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 digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

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