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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

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

This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he said.

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI 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 trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also use technology.

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

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.

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

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

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.