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A runner

After a holiday period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an AI tool for impromptu training for the a major running event.

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

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.

She said she asked it to create a regimen combining running and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her race date and objectives.

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

Subsequently, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

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

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

Richard Gallimore

Significant Fitness Improvements

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been employing artificial intelligence for his exercise and nutrition programs, 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 running event.

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

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

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

One recent survey in late 2024 compared prices for 17 of the largest gym brands and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, for basic memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the most expensive.

According to further data, fitness coaches determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically 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 Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and accountability that live training provides.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a coach, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also use AI.

"I think it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I believe the more people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he continued.

The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can educate users and make guidance more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a computer won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," he added.

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