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A runner

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

However, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

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, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

"I work out 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 prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

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

Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.

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

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

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

But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.