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A runner

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

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

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven running app that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to create a plan merging running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

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

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard 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.

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in late 2024 compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically 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 will often hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

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

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

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

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd said Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more efficient.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

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