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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

One recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

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

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, 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 employ AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," 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.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.