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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also use technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

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

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

However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.