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A runner

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

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

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a plan merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and objectives.

The user then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted 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

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he commented.

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on 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.

Clients typically use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

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

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.