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A runner

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

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

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she requested it to create a plan combining running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

He turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

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

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

A recent study in late 2024 compared costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on standard memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He said a number of his clients also use AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he added.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.