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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

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 race date and objectives.

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

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing 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.

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

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

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

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

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

However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.