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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.

"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard full-access plans.

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

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ 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 want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.

The trainer said AI can educate users and make guidance more effective.

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up 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 concluded.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.