🔗 Share this article

Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

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

Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, 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 Coaching

One recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.

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

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.

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

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

The trainer said AI can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.