🔗 Share this article

Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her event day and goals.

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

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

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for standard full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically hire 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 one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also employ AI.

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.

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

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically 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," Dafydd concluded.

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