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A runner

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from Aberdare said she liked 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 audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her race date and goals.

The user then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

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

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

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

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use AI.

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

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd explained AI can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up 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," Dafydd concluded.

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