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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

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

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose 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 goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been using 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 help after being unable to run a race.

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ AI.

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

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

However, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

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