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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

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

The user then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he said.

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

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more effective.

However, 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 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 take a break from technology.