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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a plan combining running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I realized I need to sort myself out," he said.

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

"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, based on standard full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

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

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.

But, he said real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.