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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and downtime, many people head into January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

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

Subsequently, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard 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 built a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

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

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he stated.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.

Dafydd explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.

But, he said real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.