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A runner

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

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

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

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

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he commented.

The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic memberships.

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

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.

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

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

"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 fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.