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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

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

He resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year compared costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, 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, more knowledge is good," he said.

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

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

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

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.

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