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A runner

Following a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, many people enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week plan customized to her race date and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.

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

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent study in the previous year compared costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard full-access plans.

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

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients will often use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching offers.

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

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.

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

Dafydd said AI can educate clients and make coaching more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for training.

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

For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.