🔗 Share this article

A runner

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon 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 objectives.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.

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

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized 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 Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for standard full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

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

Clients will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

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

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

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can educate users and make coaching more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.