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A runner

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her race date and goals.

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

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

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

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.

Dafydd said AI can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up in person for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.