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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a regimen merging running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

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

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.

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

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.