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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her race date and goals.

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

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard full-access plans.

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

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

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

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

Dafydd explained AI can educate users and make guidance more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

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