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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a plan merging running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in 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 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for standard full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients will often use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.

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

The trainer explained AI can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.