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A runner

After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her race date and goals.

Leah then tweaked the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

He resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

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

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.

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

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more efficient.

But, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically 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 stop being glued to screens.