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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.

She said she asked it to design a regimen combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

"I just knew I had to get myself in shape," he said.

The free tool built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent study in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, for basic memberships.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per hour-long session outside London and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his clients also use technology.

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

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the comprehension that is absent from a machine," he continued.

The trainer said AI can educate clients and make coaching more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people show up in person for training.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he added.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.