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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

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

She explained she requested it to create a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.

"I realized I had 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 work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ technology.

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

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.

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

However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.