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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

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

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a plan combining running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

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

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

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

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic memberships.

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

Based on further data, 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 London.

Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

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

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

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

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more effective.

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

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

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