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A runner

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

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

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

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

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

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

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

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for basic memberships.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment 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," Dafydd added.

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