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A runner

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she asked it to design a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

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

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

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

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.

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

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for their sessions.

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

For many, he said, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.