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A runner

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing 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 realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers 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.

Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use AI.

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

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.

Dafydd explained AI can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he added.

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