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A runner

After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

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

This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She explained she requested it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

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

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic memberships.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

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

Clients typically hire a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also use technology.

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

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd explained AI can educate clients and make guidance more efficient.

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 added.

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