🔗 Share this article

A runner

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he said.

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

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.

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

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

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

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.