13 Best Fitness and Workout Apps for 2026, Tested & Reviewed
One of the most frustrating things about browsing an app store on your Android device or iPhone is that almost every workout app says they’re free, but with in-app purchases. Once you install the app, however, you realize that the in-app purchase is to unlock full use of the workout app. Workout apps can be very effective when you use them consistently and choose plans that match your fitness level and goals. They provide structure, reminders, and progression, but results still depend on your effort, recovery, and nutrition outside the app.
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Another good workout tracker is Hevy, which has a robust community of support where you can share your workouts and view, like and comment on others’ workouts. FitOn is a great service for people just dipping their toes into the fitness world, mainly because it’s free and gives you access to tons of guided workout videos, still all for free. While the premium option can give you special features like premium music options to spice up your playlist, personalized meal plans, and offline downloads to workouts, the bulk of the app is free. Accountability features were a major factor, since different people need different levels of encouragement. Muscle Booster is our pick for the best workout app for beginners because it removes much of the guesswork that can make starting a fitness routine intimidating.
Best Free Workout App for Strength Training: Home Gym Club Training
“You’re really getting a lot for the price,” Amanda says, rating the level of instruction a 5 out of 5. The list includes hiking, canoeing, an e-bike rides, rowing, alpine skiing, swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and yoga. Of course, it’s important to point out that there are no actual workouts on Strava, so unlike other apps on this list, don’t expect to follow a strength training session — this is an app for tracking your progress. Basically, if you’re looking to strength train with a lot of different equipment, you should find a workout tracker that provides a pretty comprehensive list of strength exercises. If you’re working on your running, an app that can track your GPS location will be extremely helpful. And if you’re looking to do a mix of things, find the app that offers that level of variety.
“My only comment is that the pictures in the beginning while registering were clearly AI generated, and it would’ve been more encouraging to see real photos,” she said. That being said, Paige liked that she didn’t feel anything about the app was pressuring or shame-inducing. If you have an Apple Watch, the app makes it convenient to access it and view your metrics on the smartwatch during your workouts as well. If you own an iPhone, it’s a no-brainer to sign up for a workout app that is already built into your smartphone and allows you to work out anywhere. Some positive reviews users have shared are that the app finally got them to be more active, while another says it gave them the freedom to get in shape on their own time frame. If you like to run outdoors, for example, you’ll likely want an app that offers location tracking.
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Different workout apps will provide different levels of tracking for workouts. Most free ones allow you to record loads and times for daily workouts, but you might also be able to track basic metrics, like weight, water, and inches. Again, make sure the tracking and logging functions match the needs of your fitness goals.
If you prefer to keep your data and running routes private, you can also make those changes through your settings via the app. One of the newer safety features on the Strava app is called the Beacon, which lets you share your location in real time with an emergency contact. Read online reviewsCheck the ratings in the app store, or what users are saying on review sites that you trust. Also look out for recommendations from leading fitness and tech sites, such as Men’s Health and CNET. And forget those New Year’s resolutions you’ll have given up on by February – try these habit hacks instead. Now you know the features you should be looking out for in a fitness app, it’s time to drill down on what really matters to you.
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With that said, there are a couple of fitness apps that have a fully functioning app and all of its features are available for free—no subscription needed. One such app is Nike Training Club, which has been completely free since 2020. If you don’t feel the need for an online support system, there are still ways to stay on top of your workouts. Some apps will add calendar reminders or push notifications to help remind you of your workout schedule for the week. It can help you keep all of your workout records in one place, without having to scour notebooks or fitness logs to check for your one-rep-max deadlift.
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- With Home Gym Club Training, you’ll be able to access over a thousand strength-training programs, including over 100 programs created by certified expert coaches.
- Similarly, Zwift and Strava track and record relevant cardio metrics to help reliably improve your endurance performance.
- Amanda tested the app and says, “This is a fun app—very fun if you like CrossFit.
- Some apps let you personalize your goals or even connect with a personal trainer to help you meet them.
- There are free options and paid apps, but it’s hard to know which will suit your training needs.
- If you’re already in a routine, simple streak tracking, calendar views, or progress charts might be enough.
The interface is clean and easy to navigate as well, leading Amanda to rate both the setup and ease of use a 5 out of 5. Each exercise has an extensive overview of the movement, including a video, complete step-by-step instructions, a muscle map displaying the body parts most involved, and even key points and takeaways on form. That’s a lot of information for each exercise, leading us to rate the instruction a 5 out of 5.
Hevy: Best Gym Logger/Strength Training App
Depending on the app style, testers prioritized options that provide safe, easy-to-follow exercise instructions, including clear videos and verbal cues. Extra visuals like timers, rep counters, pacing guidance, and alternative angles or modifications were rated highly because they help with form and confidence, especially for beginners. Our team underwent hands-on testing of each app’s setup, usability, workout quality, and overall value, with a special focus on how well they support consistency over time. We looked for apps that are not only effective, but realistic to stick with for different lifestyles and fitness levels. On accountability, our team also gave Reverse Health an overall 5 out of 5 rating.
Benefits of Workout Apps
Now, Amanda brings her expertise in fitness to the GGR team by testing equipment and writing authentic, honest reviews on everything you might need to stock your home gym. Testers paid close attention to how easy or difficult it was to download and set up each app, from account creation to any onboarding quizzes. Clear navigation, intuitive layouts, and obvious “do this today” guidance were prioritized so users could get moving quickly without feeling overwhelmed. If you’re looking for more nutritional support, we suggest checking out our best meal delivery services for weight loss, or trying out Noom in combination with Reverse Health. This depends on your goals and how consistent you are with a workout routine.
We’ve tested Fiit with and without equipment or chest strap monitors, and every class we’ve sweated through gets a huge tick from us. During testing, we found the instructor-led workouts to be engaging and motivating, and also enjoyed the whiteboard workouts, which show you the entire workout so you can follow at your own pace. It’s not perfect, but for a free app, there’s plenty to keep you moving here.
Best Free Outdoor Workout App: AllTrails
While a handful of apps are free, many of these workout apps require a subscription. Take advantage of any trial period and then try a monthly subscription to see if the app meets your needs. If you like what you see, you can always switch to an annual subscription, which usually lowers your monthly cost.
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Other times, the free version is so limited that it almost forces you to https://www.reddit.com/r/bodyweightfitness/comments/1r68ex7/whats_your_trick_for_sticking_to_a_home_workout/ pay for the premium deal. It may make you think that there aren’t any truly free workout apps available. Looking for the best workout apps can be tough, especially if you’re looking for a free app.
