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A runner

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

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

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

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

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

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic memberships.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also use AI.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.

"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.

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

However, he argued 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," Dafydd added.

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