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A runner

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

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

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a plan merging running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

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

Customers will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.

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

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.

The trainer explained AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.