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Leah Walsh

Following a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from Aberdare said she appreciated the liberty to pose queries at all hours – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first half marathon in 2024.

She explained she asked it to design a plan combining running and the gym, and it produced an multi-week programme customized to her race date and goals.

The user then adjusted the plan 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 did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and created organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent study in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on basic memberships.

Prices ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the most expensive.

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

Clients will often hire a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned a number of his clients also employ AI.

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.

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

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people appear physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.

In the view of many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.