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A runner

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

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

She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored 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 Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also use technology.

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

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.

The trainer said AI can educate users and make guidance more effective.

But, he said real commitment comes when people show up 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.

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