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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

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

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching 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 plan customized to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

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

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

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

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.

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

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.