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A runner

After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

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

This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the liberty to pose queries any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a plan combining running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to fit her lifestyle, which she described 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. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard full-access plans.

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

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, from the Welsh capital, said AI can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also use AI.

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

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.

Dafydd said AI can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

But, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.