Leah Walsh
Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.
But, could AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to personal trainers?
Leah Walsh used an AI tool for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old from a town in Wales said she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her customized schedules with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She explained she requested it to design a regimen merging running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her race date and goals.
The user then tweaked the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.
She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.
"Using AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
Richard resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
One recent study in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic memberships.
Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the most expensive.
According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Clients will often use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching offers.
This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.
"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.
"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.
The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more efficient.
But, he argued true dedication comes when people show up 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 7am before work," he concluded.
For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
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