🔗 Share this article

Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.

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

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

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also use technology.

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

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd said AI can educate users and make coaching more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at 2am, 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 space to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.