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A runner

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

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

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

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 70kg to 110kg.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, 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

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.

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

But, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

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

For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.