🔗 Share this article

Leah Walsh

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

However, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

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

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

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

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

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

According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also use technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

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

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

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

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