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A runner

After a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

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

Leah then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.

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

The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

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

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 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 Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use AI.

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

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he added.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make guidance more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

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