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Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

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

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

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

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

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for standard memberships.

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

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

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

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he added.

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

But, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

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

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