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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

The user then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also use technology.

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

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.

Dafydd explained AI can inform users and make guidance more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.

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