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Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her race date and goals.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he said.

The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created organized workouts.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I think 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.

The trainer explained AI can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he said true dedication 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," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.