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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

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

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she asked it to create a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

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

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 full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

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

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for basic memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often hire a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.

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

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

The trainer explained AI can inform users and make guidance more effective.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he added.

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