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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

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

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

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

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ AI.

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

"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 machine," he added.

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

But, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.