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A runner

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested 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 fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

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

Prices started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.

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

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

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.

The trainer explained AI can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

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