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A runner

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she asked it to create a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

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

Subsequently, she chose 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 human personal trainer.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he commented.

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

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent study in the previous year compared costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

But, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.