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A runner

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a regimen merging running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

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

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

She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

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

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent study in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.

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

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually 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 once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

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

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

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

But, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.

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

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