A runner
After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, numerous individuals enter the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.
But, is it possible that AI be changing the fitness industry by providing an alternative to personal trainers?
One fitness enthusiast used 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 ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.
Leah relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in 2024.
She said she requested it to design a plan merging running and the weight training, and it produced an multi-week plan customized to her event day and objectives.
The user then adjusted the plan to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper 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 AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like," she remarked.
A weightlifter
In a similar case, Another individual, 23, based in Swansea, has been using AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and said he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to a much heavier load.
Richard resorted to a AI assistant for help after being unable to run a running event.
"I realized I had to get myself in shape," he commented.
The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and created organized workouts.
"I train for about two hours a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.
A recent survey in the previous year analyzed prices for numerous of the largest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds per month, based on standard memberships.
Fees started at a lower price at the most affordable provider to £132 at the highest-priced.
According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, usually £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.
Clients typically use a coach one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, but these agreements are often adaptable.
Dafydd Judd
Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, said artificial intelligence can be useful to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that live training provides.
This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He said some of his trainees also use technology.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, more knowledge is good," he stated.
"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a computer," he added.
The trainer explained Artificial intelligence can educate clients and make guidance more effective.
But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.
"As useful as it is at 2am, a digital tool won't keep you accountable at early morning before work," Dafydd concluded.
For many, he suggested, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.
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