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A runner

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

However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

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

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established 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 prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for basic memberships.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider 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 session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced 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 older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.

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

Dafydd said AI can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

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

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

For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.