After a festive period filled with indulgent treats and relaxation, many people head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.
But could AI be changing the fitness industry by offering an alternative to personal trainers?
Leah Walsh used an AI tool to train for last-minute training for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
The 21-year-old from Aberdare in Rhondda Cynon Taf, said she liked the freedom to ask it questions any time of day – something she felt was not possible with a personal trainer.
Leah used an AI-powered running app that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her first half marathon in 2024.
She said she asked it to create a plan combining running and the gym, and it produced an 11-week programme tailored to her race date and goals.
Leah then tweaked the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time of day. She finished a minute faster than her goal time.
She said she did not want to feel pressure from a human personal trainer.
“With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I quite like,” she added.