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A runner

After a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

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

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

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

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

However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear 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 early morning before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.