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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

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

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said.

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

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

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers will often use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also use AI.

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

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

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

However, he said real commitment 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 disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.