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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen merging running and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

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

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he commented.

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.

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

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.

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

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more efficient.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.