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A runner

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, could AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

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

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

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

She said she requested it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.

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

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

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

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added.

The trainer said AI can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

But, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.