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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

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

She relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.

She said she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.

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

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also use technology.

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

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.

The trainer said AI can inform users and make guidance more effective.

However, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.