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A runner

After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid the 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

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight 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 said.

The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

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

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

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

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

Dafydd explained AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.