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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

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

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench 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 sort myself out," he said.

The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also employ technology.

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

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

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

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.