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A runner

After a festive period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

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

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

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.

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

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

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

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

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.