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A runner

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from Aberdare said she liked the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she asked it to design a plan merging running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

The user then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

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

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

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic memberships.

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

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, 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 will often use a trainer one or two times 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 Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also employ AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

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

But, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

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