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A runner

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

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

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she opted for 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 did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he commented.

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard memberships.

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

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also use technology.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.

The trainer said AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.

However, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

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