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Leah Walsh

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

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

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

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

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

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on 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 said.

"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 computer," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.

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