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A runner

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

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

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

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

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

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

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in the previous year compared costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.

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

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ AI.

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

"I think the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd explained AI can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

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