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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules 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 running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

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

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.

The free tool built 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 real difference," he added.

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for basic memberships.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long 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 agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I believe the more 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 added.

Dafydd said AI can inform users and make guidance more efficient.

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.