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A runner

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

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

She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

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

The user then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he commented.

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

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also use AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

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

Dafydd explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

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

For many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.