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Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – 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 pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a race.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent study in the previous year analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on standard memberships.

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

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ AI.

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

"I think the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

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

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 won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.