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A runner

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

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 Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also use technology.

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

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.

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

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.