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A runner

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu 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 any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a plan combining cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said.

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for standard memberships.

Fees started at £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers will often use a coach one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.

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

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.

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

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.