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A runner

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

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

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

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

The following year, 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 target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

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

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also use AI.

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

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

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

But, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful 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 said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.