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Leah Walsh

After a festive period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence 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 turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.

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

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

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also use technology.

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

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more efficient.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.