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A runner

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

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

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

The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper 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.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said.

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

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also use AI.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added.

The trainer said AI can educate clients and make coaching more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer 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 take a break from technology.