10 Fitness Apps to Help You Stay in Shape in 2016
Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to get into shape? Have you decided to train for a marathon or beat your personal bests? Whether you’re just beginning a workout routine, you’re a weekend warrior, or you are already a serious exerciser, these 10 fitness apps will help you get fit and stay in shape all year long.
1. The Johnson & Johnson Official 7 Minute Workout (Free, available on iOS/Android)
There is no excuse to not workout now when you can squeeze in less time than it takes to take your lunch break. All you need is a chair, a wall and seven minutes. Choose your level of intensity and go through 30-second intervals of exercises like push-ups, side planks, crunches, jumping jacks and tricep dips for a total body workout. The app is built for any level of experience – beginners or avid exercisers.
2. Sworkit (Free, available on iOS/Android)
Simply Work It, or Sworkit, focuses on set, targeted exercise routines. Pick what you want to work on, whether it’s building strength, pilates or creating a cardio routine. Each workout is different so you’re never bored by the same workout, and the premium version unlocks extra features like the ability to save customized workouts.
3. Runmeter (Free, $4.99/year for Elite, available on iOS)
Free for the basic app and an affordable annual cost for the Elites, Runmeter is a great running app that offers a ton of data. With maps, splits, intervals, graphs, laps, zones, training plans and more, it’s a customizable way to get started as a runner or improve your running times.
4. JEFIT.com (Free, available on iOS/Android)
If you want a great resource for strength training and bodybuilding, look no further than the JEFIT.com app. Get access to thousands of detailed strength training routines that target specific body parts, plus a workout planner, progress tracker, and more to help you lift higher, better and stronger. The free version has ads, whereas the pro version has more features and zero ads.
5. Pocket Yoga ($2.99, available on iOS/Android)
Pocket Yoga is a great way to get in shape while building core muscles, stretching and breathing at your own pace. With detailed voice and video instructions for each of the hundred poses, this app also lets you know the history and health benefits behind each one. Log your exercises and progress and choose between practices and durations.
6. Workout Trainer (Free, available on iOS/Android)
Want thousands of free workouts without having to set foot in a gym? Workout Trainer is cheaper than a personal trainer and provides step-by-step audio and video instructions for all kinds of built-in workout routines. Use the app’s library to build custom routines and share online, or use the fitness routines crafted and shared by the community.
7. Couch to 5K ($2.99, available on iOS/Android)
If you’re looking to improve your endurance for an upcoming race, or even if it’s your first time preparing for a major race, Couch to 5K will whip you into shape. The app has a nine week plan for people who may have just taken up running, with three times a week runs that last 30-40 minutes each. Motivational tips will help you stay encouraged, and a built-in music player lets you run with your favorite playlists.
8. Pact by GymPact (Free, available on iOS/Android)
Make a bet with your friends or members of the app community that you’ll hit the gym this week or complete a workout. If you do, the app verifies you’ve hit those goals by having you check in to venues. If you reach or exceed your fitness goals, you earn cash — but if you stay at home, you gotta pay up!
9. Zombies, Run! (Free, available on iOS/Android)
For those who need extra fitness motivation, Zombies, Run! gamifies your fitness goals by having you race to save your life and the people of Abel Township. There’s a music player and streaming app integration that’s interrupted by radio and storyline messages that want to make you run for your life.
10. Charity Miles (Free, available on iOS/Android)
Don’t just give yourself the gift of health with your workouts — earn money for charities every time you walk, run or bike. Corporate sponsors will donate a few cents for every mile you finish, so you can support a good cause beyond your own sense of self-satisfaction every time to beat a new milestone!
Stay in shape or get fit this new year by trying these recommended fitness apps. Remember to consult with your doctor and make an appointment with us to learn which app may be best for you.