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Leah Walsh

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.

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

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also use technology.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

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

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

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

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.