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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

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

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

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

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

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

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers will often use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.

"I believe the more 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.

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

But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.