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A runner

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

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

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

Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

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

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas 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, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his trainees also use AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.

Dafydd said AI can educate users and make coaching more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.