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Leah Walsh

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

However, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

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

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. 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 find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on basic memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 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.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

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

However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.

"No matter how helpful 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 gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.