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A runner

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the schedule 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 ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent study in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ AI.

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

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

Dafydd said AI can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

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

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

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