🔗 Share this article

A runner

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

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

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

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in the previous year compared costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.

Prices started at £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.

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

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

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more efficient.

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

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.