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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

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

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he said.

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also use AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he added.

Dafydd said AI can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.