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A runner

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and relaxation, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

But, is it possible that AI be transforming the fitness industry by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

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

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with voice guidance and speed targets for her inaugural half marathon in recent years.

She said she asked it to design a plan merging cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week programme customized to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the plan to suit her daily routine, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.

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

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

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Strength Improvements

In a similar case, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a bot for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

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

This no-cost application built a fitness and meal program personalized to his goals, and established organized workouts.

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

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training

A recent survey in the previous year compared costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was around £38 per month, based on basic memberships.

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

According to further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment in most areas and about £45-£65 in London.

Customers typically hire a coach once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer

The Essential Human Touch

Fitness coach one experienced professional, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be useful to accelerate results, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, specialises in older adults and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his trainees also use technology.

"I think it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he said.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he continued.

The trainer explained AI can inform users and make guidance more efficient.

But, he said true dedication comes when people show up physically for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

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