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Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules

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

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster 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 quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg 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 sort myself out," he said.

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ AI.

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

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

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.

However, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.