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A runner

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, 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 110kg.

He turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he said.

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

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, 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 live training offers.

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

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer said AI can educate clients and make coaching more effective.

But, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"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," Dafydd concluded.

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