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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable 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 feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

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

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

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

Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London 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 short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also use technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he added.

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

However, 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 digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.