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A runner

After a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her race date and goals.

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

The following year, 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 target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he said.

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

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard memberships.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

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

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

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

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

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