🔗 Share this article

A runner

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to design a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest 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 £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers will often hire a coach 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 Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also use AI.

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

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he added.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.