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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period filled with rich foods and relaxation, many people enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

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

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales explained she liked the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She explained she asked it to design a regimen merging running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

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

"Using artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Improvements

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

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

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

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

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

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

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

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

Clients typically use a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

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

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also use technology.

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

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

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more effective.

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

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he concluded.

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