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A runner

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

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she asked it to design a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her race date and goals.

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

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

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

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.