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A runner

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent study in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for standard memberships.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.

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

The trainer said AI can educate users and make guidance more effective.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

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

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