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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.

She explained she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a different tool 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 noted she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.

The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

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

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.

Dafydd said AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.

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

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

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.