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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to design a plan combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.

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

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic full-access plans.

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

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers will often hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged 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.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more efficient.

However, he argued real commitment 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 7am before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.