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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines

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

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a plan merging running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

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

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he said.

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

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

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

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also employ AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

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

The trainer said AI can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.

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

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he added.

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