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Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her race date and goals.

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

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using 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 commented.

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

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for standard memberships.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.

Customers will often use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

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

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

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

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

However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.

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

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