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A runner

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

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

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

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.

"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he said.

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established 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 Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant 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 injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also use technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.

Dafydd said AI can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

However, he said real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

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