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A runner

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

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

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he said.

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

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for basic memberships.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also use technology.

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

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.

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

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

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