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A runner

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

However, could AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

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

This young woman from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

The user then tweaked the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

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 reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

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

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

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard full-access plans.

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

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers will often use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, 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 live training offers.

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

"I think it's very valuable, additional information 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 comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

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

But, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.

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