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Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance 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 created structured routines.

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

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

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.