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A runner

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to design a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

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

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, 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 a lower weight to 110kg.

He turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.

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

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created organized workouts.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced 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 coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more effective.

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

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

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.