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Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

The user 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 cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.

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

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

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

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.

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

Dafydd said AI can educate clients and make coaching more effective.

But, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

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

For many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.