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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.

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

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

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

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.

"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent study in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on basic memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute 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 short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also use AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd explained AI can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up 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 early morning before work," he concluded.

For many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.