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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

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

She used an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

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

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

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

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

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ AI.

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

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

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

However, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.

For many, he said, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.