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A runner

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

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

Leah used an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, 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 resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

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

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd said AI can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"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 added.

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