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A runner

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

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

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

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

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he said.

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

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.

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

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about a similar range in London.

Clients will often use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.

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

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.