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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people head into January 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?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

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

The user then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a different tool 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 find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 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 bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.

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

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

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard memberships.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ technology.

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

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.

The trainer explained AI can educate clients and make coaching more effective.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up in person for training.

"As useful 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 suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.