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A runner

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a regimen combining cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then tweaked 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 consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She said she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he commented.

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for standard full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

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

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

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

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can educate users and make guidance more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he added.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.