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A runner

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk 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 structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

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

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

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

Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also use AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.

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

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

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