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A runner

After a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

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

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

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.

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

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he commented.

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard full-access plans.

Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also use technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance 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 cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.