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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

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

This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she chose 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 goal time.

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

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.

"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he said.

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ technology.

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

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

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

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.