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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a regimen merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

The user then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

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

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard memberships.

Prices started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence 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 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.

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

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more efficient.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person 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 suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.