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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a plan merging running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

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

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

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

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard memberships.

Fees started at £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

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

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

"I think the more people are online the more they'll want human connection because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more effective.

However, he argued true dedication 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 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.