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A runner

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit 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 at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted 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 Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan 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 Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients typically use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.

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

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

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.