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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

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

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence 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.

He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

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

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also use AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

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

The trainer explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

"As useful 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 fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.