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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said.

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

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in the previous year 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 most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.

"I believe 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 computer," he continued.

Dafydd said AI can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.