🔗 Share this article

A runner

Following a festive period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Programs and Flexible Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed 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 any time of day – something she believed was unavailable with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-powered fitness application that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in 2024.

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

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she described was convenient.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

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

A weightlifter

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

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

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

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Traditional Coaching

One recent study in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 a month, based on standard full-access plans.

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

Based on industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about a similar range in the capital.

Clients typically hire a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I believe the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.

The trainer said AI can inform clients and make guidance more efficient.

But, he argued true dedication comes when people appear in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he added.

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