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Leah Walsh

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

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

Leah used an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a plan merging running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

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

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

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

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.