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A runner

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

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

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.

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

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

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

"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 work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic memberships.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ technology.

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

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

Dafydd explained AI can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

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