🔗 Share this article

A runner

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

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

She said she asked it to create a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

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

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run 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 created structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, 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.

Customers will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also use AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.