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Leah Walsh

After a festive period filled with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

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

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

Leah Walsh employed an AI tool for last-minute training for the a major running event.

This young woman from a town in Wales explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries at all hours – something she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and goals.

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

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could ask it questions whenever she wanted. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

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

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

A weightlifter

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, in his twenties, from a Welsh city, has been using AI for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has never felt stronger, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a running event.

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

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

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

The Cost Contrast: Technology vs. Traditional Training

One recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for basic memberships.

Fees ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

Based on industry research, personal trainers set their own rates, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about a similar range in London.

Customers will often use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, acknowledged artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but is convinced it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and injury rehabilitation. He said some of his clients also use technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he said.

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

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can educate users and make coaching more efficient.

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

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd added.

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