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A runner

After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

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

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.

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

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

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.

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