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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

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

She used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to design a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

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

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

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

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

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.