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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, could AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she opted for 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 said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence 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 resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, 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 will often use a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

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

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.

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

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

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he added.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.