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A runner

Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Flexible Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she liked the freedom to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the plan to fit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She said she did not want the pressure from a human personal trainer.

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

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He resorted to a bot for assistance after being unable to run a race.

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

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program tailored to his aims, and established organized workouts.

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

The Expense Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

A recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic full-access plans.

Fees started at £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in London.

Clients typically hire a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these arrangements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also use AI.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he stated.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is missing from a machine," he added.

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more effective.

But, he said true dedication comes when people show up 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 suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.