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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

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 any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported 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 assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard memberships.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also use technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd said AI can educate users and make guidance more efficient.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.

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

For many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.