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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

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

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

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also use AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.

Dafydd explained AI can educate users and make guidance more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.