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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

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

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

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

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.

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

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.

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