🔗 Share this article

A runner

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

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a plan combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

The user then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

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

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients typically use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

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