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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic full-access plans.

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

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

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

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added.

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

However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person 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," Dafydd concluded.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.