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A runner

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people enter January aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

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

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

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

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

Subsequently, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard memberships.

Prices started at £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

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

Customers will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training 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 trainees also use technology.

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

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

Dafydd explained AI can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.

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