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Leah Walsh

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

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

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session 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 arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

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

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

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

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

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.