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A runner

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

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She said she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan 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 minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

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

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also use technology.

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

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

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

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