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A runner

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

The 21-year-old from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Significant Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, based in a Welsh city, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

He turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he said.

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and created structured routines.

"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.

Fees started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to £132 at the most expensive.

According to industry research, fitness coaches determine their own fees, usually £30-£65 per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

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

"I think it's extremely useful, additional information is good," he said.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

Dafydd explained AI can educate users and make coaching more effective.

However, he argued true dedication comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.

In the view of many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.