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A runner

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

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

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

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.