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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

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

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he commented.

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

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

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

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

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

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

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