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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her race date and goals.

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

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he said.

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use technology.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.