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A runner

After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.

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

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

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