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A runner

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.

The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

"I realized 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 two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

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

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more effective.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

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