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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

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

The user then tweaked the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per 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 industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more efficient.

But, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.