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A runner

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a plan combining running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

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

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also use technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he stated.

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

The trainer said AI can educate users and make guidance more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

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

For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.