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Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted 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 remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.

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

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

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

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

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.

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

Dafydd explained AI can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

But, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he added.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.