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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

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

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 full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also use technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.

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

However, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.