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Leah Walsh

After a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.

The user then tweaked the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard turned to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

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

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on basic full-access plans.

Prices started at £23 at the cheapest chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

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

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a computer," he continued.

The trainer said AI can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.

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