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A runner

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

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

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

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

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he commented.

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more efficient.

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

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

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