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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to create a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

The user 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 consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she did not want the 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, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

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

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also use AI.

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

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

But, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

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

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.