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A runner

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for standard full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.

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

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

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