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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked 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 more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.

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

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

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

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added.

Dafydd said AI can educate users and make guidance more effective.

However, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.