🔗 Share this article

Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

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

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

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.

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

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.

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