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A runner

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

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

She said she asked it to design a plan merging running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a race.

"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Clients typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also employ technology.

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

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd said AI can educate users and make guidance more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

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