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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

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

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

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

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized 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 Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

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

Based on further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers will often use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.

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

But, 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 cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.