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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created structured routines.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.

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

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

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

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