Using online fitness apps for exercise has never been easier. Whether you want to lift weights, go for a run, or learn the finer points of yoga, there is an app to help. While they don’t replace the reliability or individualized guidance of a personal trainer, for people who know how to listen to their bodies, they can provide many incentives to keep fit. Some programs even allow downloads, so you can take your workouts with you to the park or on a business trip.Which app will be best for you depends on the wellness benefits you’re hoping to get!
Shred
Shred is a popular option for people who work out at home. Daily routines offer plenty of variety. Select from weighted workouts, bodyweight routines, and cardio. Chart your progress with activity logging and interactive visuals. For the socially inclined, there’s even a community you can join to cheer each other on.Try the app for free for one week. After that, Shred costs $12.99 a month.
Sworkit
The unique name is an abbreviation for the phrase Simply Work It, and Sworkit does that. Users enter information about their workout goals, then choose to focus on cardio, strength, yoga, and more. Custom routines allow you to fit various workouts into your week. Let Sworkit know how long you want your workout to be, and it will generate a routine designed to get you to your goals.Because each routine is different, Sworkit might appeal to people who wrestle with boredom at the gym. While the premium version offers more variation and the ability to save custom workouts, the free version is feature-rich and works well on its own.
Forte
Miss the feeling of working out in person? Try out Forte. Stream live workout classes from the comfort of your home. Check the schedule for a list of available classes, as well as information about the length and intensity of each one.There is a range of classes to choose from. Many require no equipment at all, while others do use free weights and other gear. Try the app for 30 days for free. After that, it’s $39 a month, which is still cheaper than most gym memberships.
Johnson & Johnson Official 7 Minute Workout
Free and simple is the name of the game here. The 7-minute workout gives you a full-body circuit training workout in seven minutes. The app does have other selections, such as a 16-minute choice, a core workout, and a workout for first-timers. If you’re just trying to get yourself moving each day and not as worried about hitting lofty strength or endurance goals, this app could work for you.
Strava
Strava suits runners, walkers, cyclists, and even swimmers. The tracking ability provides all the information you could want. Whether you are a beginner or more advanced, you’ll enjoy the ability to keep track of distance, pace, speed, elevation, and more. Many wearable fitness trackers can sync to the platform, as well.Challenges provide motivation, and the social aspect lets you follow others. While it’s fun to see your friends’ workouts, you can also follow along with the many elite athletes who use the platform.
Grokker
If your wellness focus is on mental health as well as physical fitness, Grokker could work for you. You can use it for workouts — including HIIT, yoga, and pilates — but it also includes courses in stress relief and other lifestyle subjects.For the goal-oriented, Grokker is full of options. It offers over 80 challenges, covering everything from yoga to weight management. After a free trial, Grokker is $15 a month.
Gaiam’s Yoga Studio
Well-known yoga prop company Gaiam’s different classes focus on strength, balance, relaxation, and flexibility. In addition to yoga, the app offers classes in meditation. You can filter by focus, ability level, or class length. You can also download classes to practice later, giving you access without an internet connection.Try Yoga Studio free for 7 days, then pay $9.99 a month.
Kineticoach
Designed with the traveler in mind, Keneticoach provides custom workout plans designed for use in often-limited hotel gyms. Enter the equipment you have access to, the amount of time you have to work out, your current fitness level, and your goals, and Kineticoach builds the workout.The app costs $9.99 a month.
Wakeout
Want to ease yourself into an exercise routine? Try Wakeout’s library of over 1,000 exercises, which can be scheduled ahead of time or started with a quick tap. The app will let you know if you have been sitting too long, encouraging you to hop up and complete a round of exercises.For full access to Wakeout’s features, you’ll need the $4.99 monthly subscription.
Pacer
Looking for something simple to track your activity? Give Pacer a run for its money — for free. The unpaid version counts your steps and tracks your activity, but if you want more information, a $50 annual subscription gives deeper insights into your personal stats.