🔗 Share this article

A runner

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

However, could AI be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

She used an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to design a regimen merging 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 lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her goal time.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a live instructor.

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his bench press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard turned to a bot for help after being unable to run a running event.

"I just knew I need to get myself in shape," he said.

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 added.

The Cost Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in the previous year compared prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on basic memberships.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long session outside London and about a similar range in London.

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

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his trainees also use AI.

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

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

The trainer explained AI can educate clients and make guidance more effective.

However, he said real commitment comes when people show up in person for training.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.

For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.