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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

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

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application 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 did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard full-access plans.

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

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also use AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

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

But, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

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

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.