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A runner

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose 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 feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

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

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

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more effective.

However, he said true dedication 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," he concluded.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.