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A runner

After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.

She said she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then tweaked the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

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

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

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

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

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard memberships.

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

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also use technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, 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 understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.

Dafydd said AI can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

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

"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 said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.