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A runner

After a festive period packed with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter January looking to get their fitness back on track.

But, could Artificial Intelligence be transforming the fitness industry by offering an option to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – a feature she believed was not possible with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven fitness application that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she requested it to design a plan merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she said was highly practical.

The following year, she opted for a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. She finished a full minute quicker than her target finish.

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

"With AI you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in a Welsh city, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.

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

This no-cost application constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in the previous year compared costs for numerous of the biggest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 per month, based on standard memberships.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the most affordable chain to £132 at the most expensive.

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

Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Essential Personal Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is positive," he stated.

"I think the more people are online the more they'll desire 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 clients and make coaching more effective.

However, he said true dedication comes when people appear physically for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

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