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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

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

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

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

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in 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 offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

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

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for training.

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

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.