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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her race date and goals.

Leah then tweaked the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he commented.

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard memberships.

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

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers will often use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also use technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

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

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

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.