🔗 Share this article

Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to regain their fitness momentum.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by offering an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

Leah Walsh used an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old from Aberdare said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to design a plan combining running and the gym, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

"I realized I had to sort myself out," he said.

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent survey in the previous year compared costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds a month, for basic memberships.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are completely flexible.

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said a number of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I believe the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he continued.

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

However, 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 computer cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

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