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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

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

This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

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

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for standard full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients typically use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use AI.

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

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

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

However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.