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Leah Walsh

Following a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter the new year looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an option to personal trainers?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

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

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – a feature she felt was not possible with a traditional coach.

Leah used an AI-driven running app that gave her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to design a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and objectives.

The user then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

She said she did not want the pressure from a live instructor.

"Using artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

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

He turned to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a race.

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

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and created organized workouts.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he said.

The Expense Comparison: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in the previous year analyzed prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic full-access plans.

Fees ranged from £23 at the most affordable chain to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

According to industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

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

A personal trainer

The Essential Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also employ AI.

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

"I think the more people are online the more they'll want human connection because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

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

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd added.

In the view of many, he suggested, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.