🔗 Share this article

Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

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

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

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

She said she requested it to design a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.

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

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent study in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

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

Dafydd said AI can inform users and make guidance more effective.

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.