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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

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

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

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

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 goal time.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he said.

The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.

The trainer explained AI can educate clients and make guidance more efficient.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.