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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

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

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

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

Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, 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 missing from a computer," he added.

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

But, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.

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