🔗 Share this article

Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

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

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to further data, fitness coaches 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 London.

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

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

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

The trainer said AI can inform users and make guidance more efficient.

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.