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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Timelines

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

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She explained she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and objectives.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"Using AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

"I just knew I need to sort myself out," he said.

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

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

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Clients will often hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Touch

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he stated.

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

Dafydd said AI can inform users and make coaching more effective.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.

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