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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

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

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

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

She explained she asked it to design a plan combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence 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 unable to run a race.

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also use AI.

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

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

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

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.