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A runner

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

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

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she liked the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

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

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

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

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

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

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

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

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

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence 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, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.

Dafydd explained AI can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he added.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.