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A runner

Following a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January looking to regain their fitness momentum.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be changing the fitness industry by providing an option to personal trainers?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu training for the a major running event.

The 21-year-old hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah used an AI-powered running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her inaugural half marathon in 2024.

She said she requested it to create a plan merging running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was more affordable and she could consult it whenever she wanted. She finished a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, based in 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 a lower weight to 110kg.

He resorted to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

The free tool constructed a fitness and meal program personalized to his aims, and created structured routines.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Cost Comparison: Technology vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

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

According to industry research, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers will often hire a coach once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, but these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Fitness coach one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training provides.

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

"I think it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

"I believe the more people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they want the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more effective.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," he added.

For many, he suggested, the gym is a place to disconnect from devices and stop being glued to screens.