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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

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

Leah then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

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

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.

The trainer explained AI can inform users and make guidance more effective.

But, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.

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