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A runner

After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to design a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

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 said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he commented.

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.

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

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

Clients will often use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.

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

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

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

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

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

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