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A runner

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

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

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

The user then tweaked the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. 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 actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he said.

The free tool built a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for standard memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his trainees also use technology.

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

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

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more effective.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.