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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

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

Leah relied on 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 said she asked it to design a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and objectives.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he said.

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

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also use AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more efficient.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.

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