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Leah Walsh

After a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

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

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the schedule 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 at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, for standard full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

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

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

The trainer explained AI can inform users and make guidance more effective.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.