The best fitness apps for training
Health technology has advanced rapidly in recent years, and fitness apps have become a popular way to monitor your fitness and health. There are now many excellent apps offering guided training programs, nutrition advice, progress tracking and even motivation to help you reach your health and fitness goals. Here is an overview of the best fitness apps for beginners and experienced users alike.
Our pick of the best fitness apps
1. MyFitnessPal
Best for tracking nutrition
MyFitnessPal is one of the most popular apps focused primarily on tracking nutrition. It makes it easy to log your meals and track your daily intake of calories, macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein and fat) and vitamins. Its food database is extremely comprehensive, with millions of products. You can also sync data with other health apps and track your daily physical activity.
Pros:
- Huge food database
- Easy to use
- Syncs with other apps
Cons:
- Limited free version
- Some advanced features require payment
2. Nike Training Club
Best for workout variety
Nike Training Club is a great choice if you are looking for a variety of workouts and want to try new exercises. The app offers over 200 different workouts, including strength training, yoga, HIIT and much more. Workouts are structured to suit different fitness levels and goals. Nike Training Club is suitable for training at home or in the gym and also offers video instruction.
Pros:
- Wide range of workouts
- Free access to a large selection of workouts
- Suitable for users of different fitness levels
Cons:
- Lacks in-depth nutrition guidance
- A good internet connection is needed for video workouts
3. Strava
Best for running and cycling
Strava is particularly popular among running and cycling enthusiasts. The app lets you track distance, speed, elevation and your route, as well as compare your results with friends and other users. You can also join various challenges and communities for extra motivation. Strava also syncs with a range of smart devices, such as sports watches and heart rate chest straps.
Pros:
- Accurate workout tracking features
- Large, active user base
- Community support and challenges
Cons:
- Extra features, such as in-depth training analysis, require payment
- Focuses mainly on running and cycling
4. Fitbod
Best for strength training
Fitbod is an ideal choice for strength training enthusiasts. The app creates personalized training programs based on your goals and the equipment you have available. Fitbod adjusts your training plan to your fitness level and progress. It also provides detailed instructions on how to perform exercises and helps you track your reps and sets.
Pros:
- Personalized training programs
- Suitable for training at the gym or at home
- Instructions on correct exercise technique
Cons:
- Limited features in the free version
- Some workouts require specialized equipment
5. Headspace and Calm
Best for mental health and meditation
Physical fitness isn’t just about workouts; mental health matters too. Headspace and Calm are two popular apps that focus on supporting mental well-being and meditation. They offer guided meditations, relaxation exercises and sleep programs to help you reduce stress and sleep better. Headspace focuses more on meditation, while Calm offers a wider range of relaxing sounds and sleep stories.
Pros:
- Excellent for supporting mental health
- A wide range of meditation and relaxation exercises
- Headspace is well suited to beginners, while Calm offers a more varied set of features
Cons:
- Some features in both apps require payment
- Focus primarily on mental health rather than physical fitness
6. 8fit
Best for combining training and nutrition
8fit combines training and nutrition plans, offering a comprehensive approach to improving your health and fitness. The app creates a personalized training program based on your goals and fitness level, and also provides tailored nutrition advice and recipes. 8fit is an excellent choice if you’re looking for guidance on both training and nutrition in one place.
Pros:
- Combined training and nutrition tracking
- Personalized plans
- Well suited to home workouts
Cons:
- The free version is limited
- Food tracking features aren’t as detailed as those in MyFitnessPal
Summary
With so many fitness apps available, you can find one that suits you, whether your goal is to lose weight, build muscle mass or maintain mental balance. The key is to choose an app that matches your specific needs and motivation. MyFitnessPal is best for tracking nutrition, Nike Training Club offers a wide range of workouts, Strava is well suited to running and cycling, and Headspace and Calm are excellent for mental health. If you want a comprehensive approach that covers both training and nutrition, 8fit is the best choice.
Find the right app for you, set your goals and take a step toward a healthier life!
Come and work out! ArtGym
