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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

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

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

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

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

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers will often hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also use AI.

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

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

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

But, he argued real commitment 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 early morning before work," he added.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.