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A runner

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

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

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

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 target finish.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

Fees started at £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ technology.

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

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

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