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Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit 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. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said.

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he added.

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers will often use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training offers.

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

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.

The trainer said AI can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.

However, he said real commitment comes when people appear 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," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.