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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for 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 wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a race.

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he commented.

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on basic memberships.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also use technology.

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

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

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

But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.