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A runner

After a festive period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

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

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

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

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he added.

The trainer said AI can inform users 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 digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.