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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to design a regimen merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

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

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for standard memberships.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also use technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he added.

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

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

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

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