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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

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

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program tailored 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 Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £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 collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge 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 comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more effective.

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

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

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.