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Leah Walsh

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a plan combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

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

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

He resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a running event.

"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he said.

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

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent study in the previous year compared costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, for standard memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his trainees also use technology.

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

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

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

But, 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 computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he concluded.

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