7 Best Workout Apps to Help You Sweat Smarter in 2024

Staying fit and healthy seems like a Herculean task in a time when “Netflix and chill” has become a norm. But thanks to the explosion of workout apps, getting in shape has never been easier and more entertaining.

With more than 97,000 fitness apps in the app stores, the era of excuses is over. And more and more people are using technology to crush their fitness goals. In January 2022, nearly 17 million users downloaded workout apps.

So, if you’re ready to get off the couch and move toward becoming the fitter and healthier version of yourself, read this article to kickstart your journey.

We’ve reviewed the seven best workout apps, covering their features, appearance, and popularity, to help you choose the ideal personal training companion.

Here are the apps that made it to our list:

• MyFitnessPal: Best for tracking overall health goals
• Peloton: Best in providing an immersive experience
• Strong: Best for strength training
• Nike Training Club: Best for achieving holistic fitness
• JEFIT Workout Planner: Best for gym workouts
• Centr: Best in providing personalized training
• Aaptiv: Best audio-only workout app

Looking for a Pocket-Sized Personal Trainer? Check Out Our List of the 7 Best Workout Apps

Our team of Silicon Valley experts, including founders, strategists, and specialists, created this list based on factors like app innovation, user feedback, functionality, and overall satisfaction.

While these apps may claim to be backed by data and fitness experts, it’s still best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice on matters related to your health.

1. MyFitnessPal: Best for tracking overall health goals

Source: MyFitnessPal

MyFitnessPal is a workout app that integrates nutrition, exercise, and overall health tracking. Garnering over 200 million downloads on major app stores, it was recognized as the top-grossing fitness app in 2020 and 2021.

The app’s strength lies in its versatility, featuring a user-friendly design and integration capabilities with other health and fitness apps.

The app’s customizable settings and personalized dashboards also empower you to tailor your experience to your health goals. It boasts an extensive food database for precise calorie tracking, exercise and activity logging, bar code and meal scan options, and a community that fosters motivation and knowledge-sharing.

The community element of MyFitnessPal somewhat resembles that of EvrSo, a unique app that promotes the sharing of meaningful goals and experiences while minimizing the toxicity found in many social media platforms.

MyFitnessPal has been featured by media outlets in the U.S. such as GQ, the New York Times, and the Today Show.

Device Compatibility:

• iOS/Android

Pricing:

• Free version with basic features
• Premium subscription starts at $9.99

Pros:

• Extensive food database for accurate tracking
• Seamless integration with various fitness devices
• Supportive community for motivation

Cons:

• Premium features come at a cost
• Some users find the app’s interface overwhelming
• Occasional syncing issues with fitness devices

2. Peloton: Best in providing an immersive experience

Source: Peloton

Peloton is a workout app that offers a range of fitness classes, from strength training and meditation to outdoor running and yoga. It was developed by a company known for exercise equipment, such as stationary bikes and treadmills.

What impresses us the most about Peloton is the personalized and immersive fitness experience it aims to provide its users. The app offers live classes and on-demand workouts with expert instructors, diverse workout categories, and seamless integration with Peloton equipment.

The app is also designed to be accessible on various devices, including iPhones, iPads, Apple TV, and through AirPlay or Chromecast.

Additionally, Peloton strives to make each session enjoyable. It encourages users to filter workouts based on length, preferred training style, time, and favorite music. Its goal-based programs and challenges also add another layer of excitement to its usage.

Device Compatibility:

• iOS/Android

Pricing:

• Free
• Premium subscription starts at $12.99/month
• Additional costs for Peloton equipment (exercise bike, treadmill, etc.)

Pros:

• Variety of classes and disciplines
• Engaging and motivating instructors
• Immersive experience with Peloton equipment

Cons:

• Equipment used can be costly
• Monthly subscription makes it less ideal for users looking for a free workout app
• Limited free trial period

3. Strong: Best for strength training

Source: Strong

Strong is a workout app dedicated to strength training enthusiasts. It caters to those aiming to build and track their strength gains effectively. With over 1.2 million downloads, Strong has garnered praise from users and media alike for its effectiveness in tracking workouts and facilitating progress in the gym.

Among the reasons we see behind Strong’s popularity is its simplicity. Instead of overwhelming users with unnecessary features, Strong stays true to its core purpose: to help individuals achieve their fitness goals without distractions. The app’s streamlined interface makes it easy to record workouts effortlessly, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced powerlifter.

For example, its focus on a progressive barbell routine makes it ideal for users following programs like Starting Strength or StrongLifts 5×5, while remaining adaptable to any other workout regimen. Its features, such as detailed exercise instructions, advanced statistics, and built-in timers, enhance the workout experience without unnecessary complexity.

Device Compatibility:

• iOS/Android

Pricing:

• Free version with basic features
• Advanced options start at $3.99

Pros:

• Specialized focus on strength training
• Intuitive and clean interface
• Customizable workout routines

Cons:

• Some advanced features require a subscription
• Limited scope for users not primarily focused on strength training
• Exercise database could be more extensive

4. Nike Training Club: Best for achieving holistic fitness

Source: Nike Training Club

Nike Training Club (NTC) is a fitness app that offers workouts designed and led by world-class trainers and athletes from Nike. The platform aims to address various aspects of health, including physical fitness, nutrition, mindfulness, and overall well-being.

Among the things that set the Nike Training Club app apart is its association with top-tier Nike trainers and athletes. This unique aspect of the app provides you with insights from professionals, which adds to its popularity and credibility as an effective fitness tool.

Another distinguishing factor of NTC is its emphasis on personalization and accessibility. The app offers personalized training programs tailored to fit into your busy lifestyles, making it easier to stay consistent with your fitness routines. And while it is not entirely a free app, NTC offers an extensive selection of subscription-free content.

Furthermore, NTC allows for seamless integration with technology, particularly with Apple Watch support and Apple Health. This feature allows you to track your workouts and monitor your progress with ease.

Device Compatibility:

• iOS/Android

Pricing:

• Free
• Premium membership starts at $14.99/month

Pros:

• Workouts designed by Nike trainers
• Customizable plans for various fitness goals
• Video demonstrations for proper form

Cons:

• Update inconsistencies noted by some users
• Occasional glitches reported by some users
• In-app ads can disrupt the user experience

5. JEFIT Workout Planner: Best for gym workouts

Source: JEFIT Workout Planner

JEFIT Workout Planner is a fitness app designed for users focused on structured strength training. It offers an extensive exercise library, workout tracking, and community features to enhance the weightlifting experience.

The app boasts a wide range of features, including a 1400+ database of exercises, HD videos to show you how to do each exercise correctly, and easy-to-use tools for logging your workouts. It also has a strong community aspect, allowing users to connect, share their progress, and stay motivated together.

JEFIT has earned praise from both users and experts alike. The thriving JEFIT community, comprising over 10 million users, underscores the app’s popularity and effectiveness in helping individuals track their workouts and transform their bodies.

Device Compatibility:

• iOS/Android

Pricing:

• Free version with basic features
• Elite subscription starts at $6.99/month

Pros:

• Extensive exercise database
• Personalized workout plans
• Supportive community for motivation

Cons:

• Some advanced features require a subscription
• User interface can be overwhelming for beginners
• Limited cardio-focused content

6. Centr: Best in providing personalized training

Source: Centr

Drawing from the expertise of Chris Hemsworth’s team, Centr offers a variety of workouts ranging from strength training to yoga and boxing. The app provides tailored programs designed to align with your individual goals, whether it’s enhancing core strength, building muscle mass, or achieving total-body fitness.

In addition to its comprehensive workout programs, Centr places a strong emphasis on nutrition, offering nutritionist-approved meal plans that cater to various dietary preferences, including pescatarian, vegan, and high-protein options.

Centr also prioritizes mental well-being. It provides users with resources to unwind and improve mental resilience. From guided meditations to sleep visualizations, the platform offers tools to promote relaxation and stress relief.

Pricing:

• Free
• Premium subscription starts at $15.99

Pros:

• Holistic approach to wellness
• Celebrity-led workouts and meal plans
• Varied content for all fitness levels

Cons:

• Higher subscription costs make it less ideal for those looking for a free fitness app
• Limited free trial period
• Some users may find the celebrity focus distracting

7. Aaptiv: Best audio-only workout app

Source: Aaptiv

Aaptiv is an AI-powered fitness app designed to make personalized, effective workouts accessible to everyone. It takes a unique approach to fitness by providing audio-guided workouts. This allows users to focus solely on their exercise routine without needing to look at a screen.

Aside from its audio-guided workouts, Aaptiv stands out because of its diverse exercise categories and an extensive library of sessions led by certified trainers. The app boasts 8,000 on-demand audio and video workouts covering a wide range of activities, including running, strength training, and yoga practice.

Furthermore, the app fosters a sense of community through its community feed, where you can share your progress, offer support, and find inspiration from like-minded individuals on your fitness journey.

Device Compatibility:

• iOS/Android

Pricing:

• Free
• Unlimited on-demand class starts at £7.99

Pros:

• Audio-guided workouts for a distraction-free experience
• Diverse range of exercise categories
• Experienced trainers leading each session

Cons:

• Lack of visual components may be challenging for beginners
• Limited customization options for workout plans
• Requires a subscription for full access to content

Embrace the modern marvels of fitness tech

Say goodbye to excuses and hello to progress with just a few swipes and taps. With killer features in your arsenal, the only thing standing between you and your fitness goals is… well, nothing!

Whether you’re a gym enthusiast, a yoga lover, or just looking to break a sweat in your living room, workout apps have your back (and biceps) covered.

So dust off those sneakers, fire up your smartphone and get ready to sweat like never before. With the power of technology and a sprinkle of motivation, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.

And while you’re diving into the world of fitness apps, why not consider taking it a step further? If you’re a fitness enthusiast with a knack for technology or a developer looking to make a mark in the health and wellness industry, there’s never been a better time to explore workout app development services.

With the demand for innovative and user-friendly fitness solutions on the rise, now is your chance to be part of the revolution. Imagine creating the next big thing in the Apple App Store or Google Play — something that not only helps users achieve their fitness goals but also revolutionizes the way they approach health and wellness.

So whether you’re lacing up your sneakers or diving into code, let’s harness the power of technology to inspire and empower others on their fitness journey. Together, we can push the boundaries of what’s possible and make sweating it out a whole lot more enjoyable.

Contact us at Appetiser today!

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