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A runner

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

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then tweaked the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created structured routines.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for standard full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically use a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

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

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

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

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

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.