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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday 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 world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

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

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.

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

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

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

One recent survey in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard memberships.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also use technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

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

The trainer said AI can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

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