Best 5 running apps 2026 in USA

IFIT offers fitness lovers versatility with machine-based classes and classes that do not require anything more than a towel or mat. Anyone looking for a home-exercise program will be hard pressed to find a more technology forward, expansive and inclusive platform than iFIT. Rather, we find it better suited for people who have been training for at least six months because it lacks some of the human coaching and motivational tools that gym novices may want.

What is the best free online workout program?

• We cover seven apps across eight decision categories, from AI coaching to Apple Watch integration.
• Make sure you either have these items, or you have the budget to purchase them.
• Paid plans are around $14.99 per month, but don’t be surprised if you get a discount as a first-time user.
• There are workout programs available on FitOn, but they’re shorter ones—about 2 to 4 weeks long.
• Each serving is formulated to support consistent performance, making it a strong option for both beginners and experienced lifters looking for a dependable pre workout.
• Workout plans that lacked a clear path to progression earned low 1-star scores from our team.

So, if you’re looking to save a bit of money, I’d highly recommend giving Coopah a go. It offers all the key features you need, just with a different interface, gentler pace targets, and slightly less cross-training support, which I cover in more detail in my full review of the Coopah app. Whether you’re just starting out, coming back from injury, or training for a milestone event like your first ultra.

Get tested and trusted tips, tricks and picks to create the home you want — straight to your inbox.

Looking for the best workout apps can be tough, especially if you’re looking for a free app. 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.

Get Fit, Don’t Quit

When I worked as a full-time personal trainer, the gym I worked at charged $70 for 60-minute one-on-one sessions. If you were to work with a personal trainer once a week, it would cost you $280 per month, or $3,360 per year. To earn 3 out of 5 stars, an app should have programs you can join that give you a structured workout schedule, but they are not coached programs or group programs (you just follow it on your own terms). Maybe you get push notifications, or there’s a feature where you can integrate the workout app with your online calendar, but no human support or interaction. If the app is generally OK after a short learning curve, testers could give the app a middle-of-the-road 3-star rating. 5-star ratings were reserved for apps with a seamless user experience where workouts were easy to find, see, hear, follow along with, and track post-training.

Exercise Guides & Muscles Worked

That said, though, the attention given to this group of app users is worthwhile enough for us to name Reverse Health as one of our favorite weight loss programs for women. I do like the included modules for chair yoga and personalized weight loss journeys, but I don’t believe there’s enough content to keep things interesting or engaging for extended periods. Plus, each chosen module has its own questionnaire, which can become annoying when trying to sign up for multiple sessions at once.

We also liked that it increased accountability, giving this category a 3.5 out of 5, as some apps have more involved accountability measures. Noom combines psychology and behavioral science with traditional weight loss features like meal and activity tracking, personal coaches, and online communities to help customers adopt a healthier lifestyle. Having a personal trainer at your disposal can be great for staying diligent in your training, nutrition, and wellness journeys.

How do you plan to invest in your education?

We’ve tried these apps ourselves to see if they’re easy to use, fun, and worth the money you need to pay in subscription fees. There are also handy features like Strava Beacon, which are designed to keep you safe, by allowing your friends or family members to track your live location on a run. However, if you use a non-Apple fitness tracker, you may be a bit limited for now. For example, I wasn’t able to connect my best Garmin watch to the SWEAT app.

Take Your Workout to the Next Level

WH lifestyle director Lindsay Geller has also been using it more than ever, thanks to their recently launched prenatal track. WH editors and SID trainers alike are obsessed with Ladder, which was co-founded by a WH advisory board member, Lauren Kanski, CPT. It gives you the best of both worlds with intense and effective guided workouts and personal training from actual coaches.

For those who are training for a race or looking to add running to their high-intensity workout regimen, I think Nike is among the best running apps. After using this app for years myself, I think this one is hard to beat, especially if you have new running goals. Set new running goals or just hit your weekly mileage with the free Nike Run Club app.

It should be noted that customer reviews are mixed, with some reviews even calling BetterMe a scam. These reviews mostly talked about the nutrition side of the app, and also complained about cancelling their subscription. We had no issues in our testing, however, and more recent reviews seem generally more positive. Read our Caliber App review to learn more about this premium fitness app. “Not only are there video demos for every movement in the Caliber app (which are really well-done), but you can even send form videos to your coach,” Amanda explains. TR[Ai]NER earned mostly 4s and 5s across the board, only falling short in categories like accountability and interactive features.

Also tested

You can choose from dumbbell-only, bodyweight-only, or HIIT programs. If you only have access to a home gym or something like a small apartment gym with limited equipment, you can tailor the workouts to whatever’s available. With the free version, you can log your own workouts, or let the Caliber algorithm create a custom workout program for you, based on a quick assessment while setting up the app. Caliber also records and charts strength progress and body metrics—body weight, waist size, and body fat percentage. Some are completely free or offer a free trial, and some require a monthly subscription. Your choice will ultimately depend on whether you think investing in a paid app will actually help you get closer to your goals and what you’re comfortable spending.

All-in-one, for the all-in athlete and coach.

This is generally more motivating than chasing after a goal on your own. Using a workout log app is one of the most effective ways to stay accountable, track progress, and improve your overall fitness routine. Whether you’re lifting at the gym, training at home, or running outdoors, these tools help simplify your workout planning and make tracking second nature. Adidas Training, formerly known as Runtastic Results, is a best workout apps flexible fitness log app that focuses on bodyweight and functional workouts.

Here are the best free workout apps without subscriptions to try in 2026:

So, if you’re performing an iFIT workout on a NordicTrack treadmill, your machine will react to the coach’s lead, providing an ever-changing cardio session to keep things fresh. BetterMe creates a plan for you based on your goals, so the daily workouts are populated. They have a workout library, too, so you can go off plan if you want to. The BetterMe app is Pilates-focused workout app aimed toward beginners. It has a nutrition function where you can track calories or gather healthy meal ideas. TR[Ai]NER by Element 26 is highly adaptable based on the information you give it.

“You’re really getting a lot for the price,” Amanda says, rating the level of instruction a 5 out of 5. While there is a paid plan available, the free plan provides plenty for most users, earning a 5 out of 5 for value. You’ll be able to access over a thousand strength-training programs, including over 100 programs created by certified expert coaches.

Best boutique workout app

TrainHeroic unifies your tools, tracking, and communication into a single command center—giving you the professional infrastructure to guide your athletes without the spreadsheet headaches. Eat healthier with personalized meal plans and 500+ exclusive recipes. We looked at how easy the apps were to download and use, whether they were compatible with most of the best running watches on the market, and how motivating they were on days when we just didn’t want to run.

Reverse Health is a weight-loss program app that’s specifically designed for people during and after menopause. If you are curious about your technique in a given workout, you can record yourself and send it to your coach for analysis and feedback. This may be a chore for some, but it’s also an example of the great lines of communication at play with Future.

HR Unisex Muscle Tank

Plenty of research1 has shown that following a workout routine can help improve your physical fitness and athletic performance, but getting a personalized training plan can be expensive. Yes, there are a number of free workout apps out there, such as Nike Training Club, delivering solid workout plans to help you mix up your training sessions. Additionally, some fitness apps offer free trial periods at the start of your subscription to help you get a feel for the workout variety and platform offerings. Apps of this kind, however, often limit your capabilities within the service until you ultimately sign up and pay for the membership. Budget is a big factor, even though most workout apps cost far less than regular sessions with a personal trainer.

Best running app for map building

Although the library of exercises is expansive, just be aware that the functionality is limited in the free version. Kate explains, “I entered all the movements for a weightlifting workout, but the app ordered them alphabetically instead of in the order I wanted. To move them, I would have had to upgrade to the Elite plan.” She also found it easier to navigate through the desktop version for workout plans, and then locate them on the app afterwards. While TR[Ai]NER doesn’t offer a free-forever plan, per se, it gives you up to three workout programs for free. Some programs last eight weeks, meaning you can follow the app (in theory) for up to six months before deciding whether to upgrade to how to choose personalized workout plans a paid plan.

The Best Workout Apps

Type “health apps” into the app store and you’ll be served hundreds of thousands of options (no, that isn’t a typo). Obviously that’s extremely overwhelming for anyone, but especially if you’re a beginner who doesn’t really know what you want out of your app. Daily Yoga is used by over 60 million yogis worldwide, and in just two weeks, the app claims to make a significant difference in your yoga journey. Furthermore, it offers an intense exercise method that not only stretches your body but also enhances your overall well-being. As a result, it goes far beyond meditation, providing a holistic experience that nurtures both your mind and body. Adidas Running is built for runners of all levels, from beginners to marathon training.

Bartha offers classes ranging from 15 to 60 minutes, so it’s easy to squeeze in a workout even if you’re short on time. And if you’re new to pilates, there are a ton of great tutorials and beginner-friendly workouts. Pvolve is an energizing and engaging online workout program with classes that will fire up muscles you didn’t even know you had. The workouts are great for toning, sculpting, lengthening, improving posture, and increasing mobility. Wood tested Future as well, and notes that as someone who sometimes needs a bit of a push to get a solo workout in, this level of daily interaction is huge.

Is there a free workout app?

• For example, I wasn’t able to connect my best Garmin watch to the SWEAT app.
• A free training program may have the power to free your mind of any woes about designing an effective workout for yourself and worry about more pressing matters (like what you’re going to have for dinner).
• I’ve tried most of the other training log apps on the App Store and this is the best for me.
• Having a personal trainer at your disposal can be great for staying diligent in your training, nutrition, and wellness journeys.
• Her work has been featured in numerous esteemed publications, spanning building, travel, and fashion.
• Most people who regularly follow a strength training or running program are looking to make improvements over time, whether that’s hitting new PRs in the gym, building muscle, or shaving time off your next race.

You can chat back and forth with your instructor through the app, and even have the opportunity to video call if you need a more involved discussion. We also gave the accountability a 5 out of 5, as your coach keeps you motivated with daily check-ins, reminders to log your workouts, and tips on where you can improve. 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.

start strong with one free workout session

“I think no matter where you are, there will be a workout you can do with the app,” says Lindsay. For competitive powerlifters, neither Hevy nor Fitbod provides the periodization programming they need — that’s where JuggernautAI becomes essential.

Train for any sport, with any device, any time indoors and out.

Her passion for exercise began during her childhood, where she spent weekends hiking and competing in local athletics club events. After earning a master’s degree in journalism from Cardiff University, Jessica found the perfect way to combine her love of storytelling and fitness into a career. The answer to this depends on what features you are looking for and if you own one of the best running watches or not. If you run without a watch, then Strava is a reliable app for tracking your running speed, distance, heart rate, and more. Relatively new to the running app market, Stride allows you to track your runs and walks via your phone’s GPS and play against other users nearby to control the biggest territory.

Best workout app for women

If you click on a run, you’ll be able to see your time, distance, and calories, as well as more in-depth data on your pace, speed, timing, heart rate, stamina, and more. Compared to Fitbit and Apple, Garmin Connect gives you a huge amount of data, without asking you to pay an additional monthly fee. The main plus with the Peloton app is its trainers – from Becs Gentry to Susie Chan. There are themed runs for runners who want to have fun, we particularly loved the Disney run, and you can tailor the runs by time or your goal. The sessions were extremely motivating and were easy to follow even using an iPhone propped up against the screen of the treadmill. Choose from over 22 different teams that focus on different workout styles, each with their own certified coach.

Choose options

You can also connect with your coach via the chat in the app if you ever have questions about your training or want to chat with other members on your team. The app’s creators believe that connection is the best way to stick to your goals. That’s why they set you up with a partner who can hold you accountable.

Yet despite these stereotypes, there are still a few good eggs in the app store — like Nike Training Club. We do recommend paying close attention to the equipment requirements before hopping into a session, though. This information is sort of buried in the details, and you could be left scrambling for a dumbbell or resistance band mid-workout if you don’t do your homework prior. Additionally, iFIT offers an AutoAdjust feature on their compatible devices, which automatically toggles your incline and speed settings in tune with your instructor’s commands.

The Alive app is SID class of 2024 trainer Gabrielle Savary’s “go-to” for strength training workouts. You can access Alive’s 100-plus daily workouts, over 10 programs, and multi-day challenges. The app has workouts for every skill level and equipment access, provides video demonstrations, and allows you to track your progress. Nike’s free fitness app is simple to navigate and offers more variety than many paid platforms.

There’s a basic community feed that allows you to view others’ workouts, but not much else. It’s a simple, streamlined app that’s very beginner-friendly, but it’s not the best choice if you prefer to have access to more advanced features. JuggernautAI costs slightly more than the average app, thought it offers a longer trial period than most so new users can experience the programming. If you’re not a powerlifter looking to boost your big three lifts, you may want to consider an app service like Shred, which offers workouts for a variety of fitness goals. The level of personalization, modification, versatility, and accountability you get for the price is, quite frankly, insane. There are a million and one fitness apps out there that hover around the same price point, but most don’t offer anything nearly as comprehensive as JuggernautAI.

Apple Fitness Plus is the best workout app if you’re embedded in the company’s ecosystem, especially if you use an Apple Watch. There are HIIT, strength, core, yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes, taught by a range of different trainers. Different fitness apps can vary in price, depending on the membership you choose and the amount of first-person coaching. Our team selected apps with a variety of prices, so there’s something for everyone. Fitness apps can be handy tools for supporting your training and nutrition goals, especially if you’re at the starting line of your training, still wondering, “what is cardio?

A full gym & wellness coach. Always On.

A standout feature of the TR[Ai]NER app is its clean, simple interface. Our tester was able to set it up in less than a minute and was impressed with its user-friendly design. To learn more about this AI-powered circuit training app, be sure to check out our full Shred App review. If you want a plan that’s truly customized to your needs and goals by a human coach, you may want to consider a platform like Future. 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.

Health

For dedicated internal guidance on progressive overload methods, see our guide to progressive overload for beginners. For pure tracking with no budget, Hevy’s free tier edges out most competitors on interface cleanliness and social integration. If you only need to log sets and reps and see basic progress lines, you may never need to upgrade.

BodySpace

Whether you’re lifting weights, running, or doing home workouts, using a workout log apps can help you monitor progress, adjust routines, and stay motivated. If you’re looking for long-term workout plans, FitOn may not be ideal. There are workout programs available on FitOn, but they’re shorter ones—about 2 to 4 weeks long. That’s not enough time to make much progress.” Also, the community feed is present and available, but basic, earning just a 3 out of 5. Still, the amount of workouts you get with this app may still be worth it. However, ClassPass also has a database of workout videos that are completely free to users; you don’t even need to be on a subscription plan.

Along with the different courses, you’ll run alongside other people, using their times for encouragement or competition. If you find yourself doing a lot of exercising at home these days, Zwift can help you change up your surroundings while you shelter in place. And the mobile app even adds a little gamification to your runs as part of the bargain.

Other Interactive Features

To compile our list of the best free workout apps, we used the same methodology, except for the caveat that the app had to have a free version. As for accountability and interactive features, there aren’t a lot in this running app. Push notifications are present, and you can create and join plans to help with holding yourself accountable—but that’s only present in the premium version. There is basic community interaction through a community feed, but if you’re looking for a lot of support in your fitness journey, you may want to look for a different running app. Also known as Map My Run, the best free workout app for runners goes to Map My Fitness, with its expansive GPS tracking and other free features.

Find your coach

When you log a workout, the app will give you neat little celebrations; for example, I was told my total tonnage after a squat workout was like lifting a car. It’s the little things, but that sort of interaction can help people through tough days. When I think of an app for a beginner, I would want value, ease of use, and good instruction.

Best Workout App for Weightlifting: TR(AI)NER by Element 26

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. This app costs $25 a month ($135 a year) but lets you test it for free for seven days if you’re a new member. This is a good way to determine if the workouts on the app are the right fit for you and your goals. In late 2022, Netflix added a range of Nike Training Club workouts to its library. You could access these for free (so long as you have a Netflix subscription) and do the 10 or 20-minute sessions wherever you are.

How We Picked and Tested the Best Workout Apps

• She thinks of herself as someone who’s “really terrible at meditation,” but she says she felt like Headspace did a nice job of keeping her focused.
• Caliber also has a live community for motivation and support within the app.
• While TR[Ai]NER doesn’t offer a free-forever plan, per se, it gives you up to three workout programs for free.
• As well as joining challenges, and downloading a training plan onto your watch, you can use Garmin Connect to drill down into the data of your workouts.
• If you are doing abdominal exercises in the hope of getting a strong core and a flat stomach, you aren’t alone…
• This beginner-friendly workout app can be accommodating for a range of different skill sets and equipment setups.

So choosing the best running app for your needs depends heavily on what you want to use the app for — Tracking your stats? We only recommend the apps that have genuinely enhanced our running experience, in the hope that we can help many other runners benefit from them too. Discover new features designed to help you lock in and level up your workouts. Nitric oxide plays an important role in vasodilation, which helps widen blood vessels and improve circulation throughout the body. Ingredients commonly found in nitric oxide support supplements help increase the availability of nitric oxide precursors, potentially leading to enhanced muscle pumps and nutrient delivery during training.

REAL WORKOUTS.

There is also a section for ‘helpful tips’ that includes videos about how to start and what to expect. Then there is a place to schedule live sessions, a place to track your progress, and a settings tab where you can update your coverage or change your provider,” she says. During testing, Caliber earned a near-perfect (4.68 out of 5) score, earning it the top spot on our best workout apps roundup. When it comes to fitness, consistency is key, and this app makes exercising a cinch!

Personalization

Because of this, she ultimately gave it a 4 out of 5 for ease of use. As for the app itself, it earned a total score of 4.23 after being tested by Kate Meier, certified personal trainer and GGR head of content. Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and former GGR team member, tested the app and said the only thing better would be working with a personal trainer in person. HeavySet is a smart exercise log app that adapts to your workout habits using predictive logging and fluid design. It’s built for iOS users who want to focus on serious lifting while enjoying a seamless experience.

That said, hiring an individual for these needs can have hourly rates ranging from $25 to over $100. (1) Thankfully, Caliber offers three tiers of mad muscles review subscriptions that cater to a variety of budgets. If you’re looking for an immersive training experience that’s rich with motivation, advice, and engagement, we highly recommend subscribing to Future. Yes, the monthly membership is expensive at $199, but with that you’re essentially getting a full-fledged personal trainer in your pocket (or on your watch or TV). Accountability needs vary a lot depending on lifestyle and personality.

IFIT offers fitness lovers versatility with machine-based classes and classes that do not require anything more than a towel or mat. Anyone looking for a home-exercise program will be hard pressed to find a more technology forward, expansive and inclusive platform than iFIT. Rather, we find it better suited for people who have been training for at least six months because it lacks some of the human coaching and motivational tools that gym novices may want.

What is the best free online workout program?

• We cover seven apps across eight decision categories, from AI coaching to Apple Watch integration.
• Make sure you either have these items, or you have the budget to purchase them.
• Paid plans are around $14.99 per month, but don’t be surprised if you get a discount as a first-time user.
• There are workout programs available on FitOn, but they’re shorter ones—about 2 to 4 weeks long.
• Each serving is formulated to support consistent performance, making it a strong option for both beginners and experienced lifters looking for a dependable pre workout.
• Workout plans that lacked a clear path to progression earned low 1-star scores from our team.

So, if you’re looking to save a bit of money, I’d highly recommend giving Coopah a go. It offers all the key features you need, just with a different interface, gentler pace targets, and slightly less cross-training support, which I cover in more detail in my full review of the Coopah app. Whether you’re just starting out, coming back from injury, or training for a milestone event like your first ultra.

Get tested and trusted tips, tricks and picks to create the home you want — straight to your inbox.

Looking for the best workout apps can be tough, especially if you’re looking for a free app. 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.

Get Fit, Don’t Quit

When I worked as a full-time personal trainer, the gym I worked at charged $70 for 60-minute one-on-one sessions. If you were to work with a personal trainer once a week, it would cost you $280 per month, or $3,360 per year. To earn 3 out of 5 stars, an app should have programs you can join that give you a structured workout schedule, but they are not coached programs or group programs (you just follow it on your own terms). Maybe you get push notifications, or there’s a feature where you can integrate the workout app with your online calendar, but no human support or interaction. If the app is generally OK after a short learning curve, testers could give the app a middle-of-the-road 3-star rating. 5-star ratings were reserved for apps with a seamless user experience where workouts were easy to find, see, hear, follow along with, and track post-training.

Exercise Guides & Muscles Worked

That said, though, the attention given to this group of app users is worthwhile enough for us to name Reverse Health as one of our favorite weight loss programs for women. I do like the included modules for chair yoga and personalized weight loss journeys, but I don’t believe there’s enough content to keep things interesting or engaging for extended periods. Plus, each chosen module has its own questionnaire, which can become annoying when trying to sign up for multiple sessions at once.

We also liked that it increased accountability, giving this category a 3.5 out of 5, as some apps have more involved accountability measures. Noom combines psychology and behavioral science with traditional weight loss features like meal and activity tracking, personal coaches, and online communities to help customers adopt a healthier lifestyle. Having a personal trainer at your disposal can be great for staying diligent in your training, nutrition, and wellness journeys.

How do you plan to invest in your education?

We’ve tried these apps ourselves to see if they’re easy to use, fun, and worth the money you need to pay in subscription fees. There are also handy features like Strava Beacon, which are designed to keep you safe, by allowing your friends or family members to track your live location on a run. However, if you use a non-Apple fitness tracker, you may be a bit limited for now. For example, I wasn’t able to connect my best Garmin watch to the SWEAT app.

Take Your Workout to the Next Level

WH lifestyle director Lindsay Geller has also been using it more than ever, thanks to their recently launched prenatal track. WH editors and SID trainers alike are obsessed with Ladder, which was co-founded by a WH advisory board member, Lauren Kanski, CPT. It gives you the best of both worlds with intense and effective guided workouts and personal training from actual coaches.

For those who are training for a race or looking to add running to their high-intensity workout regimen, I think Nike is among the best running apps. After using this app for years myself, I think this one is hard to beat, especially if you have new running goals. Set new running goals or just hit your weekly mileage with the free Nike Run Club app.

It should be noted that customer reviews are mixed, with some reviews even calling BetterMe a scam. These reviews mostly talked about the nutrition side of the app, and also complained about cancelling their subscription. We had no issues in our testing, however, and more recent reviews seem generally more positive. Read our Caliber App review to learn more about this premium fitness app. “Not only are there video demos for every movement in the Caliber app (which are really well-done), but you can even send form videos to your coach,” Amanda explains. TR[Ai]NER earned mostly 4s and 5s across the board, only falling short in categories like accountability and interactive features.

Also tested

You can choose from dumbbell-only, bodyweight-only, or HIIT programs. If you only have access to a home gym or something like a small apartment gym with limited equipment, you can tailor the workouts to whatever’s available. With the free version, you can log your own workouts, or let the Caliber algorithm create a custom workout program for you, based on a quick assessment while setting up the app. Caliber also records and charts strength progress and body metrics—body weight, waist size, and body fat percentage. Some are completely free or offer a free trial, and some require a monthly subscription. Your choice will ultimately depend on whether you think investing in a paid app will actually help you get closer to your goals and what you’re comfortable spending.

All-in-one, for the all-in athlete and coach.

This is generally more motivating than chasing after a goal on your own. Using a workout log app is one of the most effective ways to stay accountable, track progress, and improve your overall fitness routine. Whether you’re lifting at the gym, training at home, or running outdoors, these tools help simplify your workout planning and make tracking second nature. Adidas Training, formerly known as Runtastic Results, is a best workout apps flexible fitness log app that focuses on bodyweight and functional workouts.

Here are the best free workout apps without subscriptions to try in 2026:

So, if you’re performing an iFIT workout on a NordicTrack treadmill, your machine will react to the coach’s lead, providing an ever-changing cardio session to keep things fresh. BetterMe creates a plan for you based on your goals, so the daily workouts are populated. They have a workout library, too, so you can go off plan if you want to. The BetterMe app is Pilates-focused workout app aimed toward beginners. It has a nutrition function where you can track calories or gather healthy meal ideas. TR[Ai]NER by Element 26 is highly adaptable based on the information you give it.

Apple Fitness Plus is the best workout app if you’re embedded in the company’s ecosystem, especially if you use an Apple Watch. There are HIIT, strength, core, yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes, taught by a range of different trainers. Different fitness apps can vary in price, depending on the membership you choose and the amount of first-person coaching. Our team selected apps with a variety of prices, so there’s something for everyone. Fitness apps can be handy tools for supporting your training and nutrition goals, especially if you’re at the starting line of your training, still wondering, “what is cardio?

A full gym & wellness coach. Always On.

A standout feature of the TR[Ai]NER app is its clean, simple interface. Our tester was able to set it up in less than a minute and was impressed with its user-friendly design. To learn more about this AI-powered circuit training app, be sure to check out our full Shred App review. If you want a plan that’s truly customized to your needs and goals by a human coach, you may want to consider a platform like Future. 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.

Health

For dedicated internal guidance on progressive overload methods, see our guide to progressive overload for beginners. For pure tracking with no budget, Hevy’s free tier edges out most competitors on interface cleanliness and social integration. If you only need to log sets and reps and see basic progress lines, you may never need to upgrade.

BodySpace

Whether you’re lifting weights, running, or doing home workouts, using a workout log apps can help you monitor progress, adjust routines, and stay motivated. If you’re looking for long-term workout plans, FitOn may not be ideal. There are workout programs available on FitOn, but they’re shorter ones—about 2 to 4 weeks long. That’s not enough time to make much progress.” Also, the community feed is present and available, but basic, earning just a 3 out of 5. Still, the amount of workouts you get with this app may still be worth it. However, ClassPass also has a database of workout videos that are completely free to users; you don’t even need to be on a subscription plan.

Along with the different courses, you’ll run alongside other people, using their times for encouragement or competition. If you find yourself doing a lot of exercising at home these days, Zwift can help you change up your surroundings while you shelter in place. And the mobile app even adds a little gamification to your runs as part of the bargain.

Other Interactive Features

To compile our list of the best free workout apps, we used the same methodology, except for the caveat that the app had to have a free version. As for accountability and interactive features, there aren’t a lot in this running app. Push notifications are present, and you can create and join plans to help with holding yourself accountable—but that’s only present in the premium version. There is basic community interaction through a community feed, but if you’re looking for a lot of support in your fitness journey, you may want to look for a different running app. Also known as Map My Run, the best free workout app for runners goes to Map My Fitness, with its expansive GPS tracking and other free features.

Find your coach

When you log a workout, the app will give you neat little celebrations; for example, I was told my total tonnage after a squat workout was like lifting a car. It’s the little things, but that sort of interaction can help people through tough days. When I think of an app for a beginner, I would want value, ease of use, and good instruction.

Best Workout App for Weightlifting: TR(AI)NER by Element 26

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. This app costs $25 a month ($135 a year) but lets you test it for free for seven days if you’re a new member. This is a good way to determine if the workouts on the app are the right fit for you and your goals. In late 2022, Netflix added a range of Nike Training Club workouts to its library. You could access these for free (so long as you have a Netflix subscription) and do the 10 or 20-minute sessions wherever you are.

How We Picked and Tested the Best Workout Apps

• She thinks of herself as someone who’s “really terrible at meditation,” but she says she felt like Headspace did a nice job of keeping her focused.
• Caliber also has a live community for motivation and support within the app.
• While TR[Ai]NER doesn’t offer a free-forever plan, per se, it gives you up to three workout programs for free.
• As well as joining challenges, and downloading a training plan onto your watch, you can use Garmin Connect to drill down into the data of your workouts.
• If you are doing abdominal exercises in the hope of getting a strong core and a flat stomach, you aren’t alone…
• This beginner-friendly workout app can be accommodating for a range of different skill sets and equipment setups.

So choosing the best running app for your needs depends heavily on what you want to use the app for — Tracking your stats? We only recommend the apps that have genuinely enhanced our running experience, in the hope that we can help many other runners benefit from them too. Discover new features designed to help you lock in and level up your workouts. Nitric oxide plays an important role in vasodilation, which helps widen blood vessels and improve circulation throughout the body. Ingredients commonly found in nitric oxide support supplements help increase the availability of nitric oxide precursors, potentially leading to enhanced muscle pumps and nutrient delivery during training.

REAL WORKOUTS.

There is also a section for ‘helpful tips’ that includes videos about how to start and what to expect. Then there is a place to schedule live sessions, a place to track your progress, and a settings tab where you can update your coverage or change your provider,” she says. During testing, Caliber earned a near-perfect (4.68 out of 5) score, earning it the top spot on our best workout apps roundup. When it comes to fitness, consistency is key, and this app makes exercising a cinch!

Personalization

Because of this, she ultimately gave it a 4 out of 5 for ease of use. As for the app itself, it earned a total score of 4.23 after being tested by Kate Meier, certified personal trainer and GGR head of content. Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and former GGR team member, tested the app and said the only thing better would be working with a personal trainer in person. HeavySet is a smart exercise log app that adapts to your workout habits using predictive logging and fluid design. It’s built for iOS users who want to focus on serious lifting while enjoying a seamless experience.

That said, hiring an individual for these needs can have hourly rates ranging from $25 to over $100. (1) Thankfully, Caliber offers three tiers of mad muscles review subscriptions that cater to a variety of budgets. If you’re looking for an immersive training experience that’s rich with motivation, advice, and engagement, we highly recommend subscribing to Future. Yes, the monthly membership is expensive at $199, but with that you’re essentially getting a full-fledged personal trainer in your pocket (or on your watch or TV). Accountability needs vary a lot depending on lifestyle and personality.

“You’re really getting a lot for the price,” Amanda says, rating the level of instruction a 5 out of 5. While there is a paid plan available, the free plan provides plenty for most users, earning a 5 out of 5 for value. You’ll be able to access over a thousand strength-training programs, including over 100 programs created by certified expert coaches.

Best boutique workout app

TrainHeroic unifies your tools, tracking, and communication into a single command center—giving you the professional infrastructure to guide your athletes without the spreadsheet headaches. Eat healthier with personalized meal plans and 500+ exclusive recipes. We looked at how easy the apps were to download and use, whether they were compatible with most of the best running watches on the market, and how motivating they were on days when we just didn’t want to run.

Reverse Health is a weight-loss program app that’s specifically designed for people during and after menopause. If you are curious about your technique in a given workout, you can record yourself and send it to your coach for analysis and feedback. This may be a chore for some, but it’s also an example of the great lines of communication at play with Future.

HR Unisex Muscle Tank

Plenty of research1 has shown that following a workout routine can help improve your physical fitness and athletic performance, but getting a personalized training plan can be expensive. Yes, there are a number of free workout apps out there, such as Nike Training Club, delivering solid workout plans to help you mix up your training sessions. Additionally, some fitness apps offer free trial periods at the start of your subscription to help you get a feel for the workout variety and platform offerings. Apps of this kind, however, often limit your capabilities within the service until you ultimately sign up and pay for the membership. Budget is a big factor, even though most workout apps cost far less than regular sessions with a personal trainer.

Best running app for map building

Although the library of exercises is expansive, just be aware that the functionality is limited in the free version. Kate explains, “I entered all the movements for a weightlifting workout, but the app ordered them alphabetically instead of in the order I wanted. To move them, I would have had to upgrade to the Elite plan.” She also found it easier to navigate through the desktop version for workout plans, and then locate them on the app afterwards. While TR[Ai]NER doesn’t offer a free-forever plan, per se, it gives you up to three workout programs for free. Some programs last eight weeks, meaning you can follow the app (in theory) for up to six months before deciding whether to upgrade to how to choose personalized workout plans a paid plan.

The Best Workout Apps

Type “health apps” into the app store and you’ll be served hundreds of thousands of options (no, that isn’t a typo). Obviously that’s extremely overwhelming for anyone, but especially if you’re a beginner who doesn’t really know what you want out of your app. Daily Yoga is used by over 60 million yogis worldwide, and in just two weeks, the app claims to make a significant difference in your yoga journey. Furthermore, it offers an intense exercise method that not only stretches your body but also enhances your overall well-being. As a result, it goes far beyond meditation, providing a holistic experience that nurtures both your mind and body. Adidas Running is built for runners of all levels, from beginners to marathon training.

Bartha offers classes ranging from 15 to 60 minutes, so it’s easy to squeeze in a workout even if you’re short on time. And if you’re new to pilates, there are a ton of great tutorials and beginner-friendly workouts. Pvolve is an energizing and engaging online workout program with classes that will fire up muscles you didn’t even know you had. The workouts are great for toning, sculpting, lengthening, improving posture, and increasing mobility. Wood tested Future as well, and notes that as someone who sometimes needs a bit of a push to get a solo workout in, this level of daily interaction is huge.

Is there a free workout app?

• For example, I wasn’t able to connect my best Garmin watch to the SWEAT app.
• A free training program may have the power to free your mind of any woes about designing an effective workout for yourself and worry about more pressing matters (like what you’re going to have for dinner).
• I’ve tried most of the other training log apps on the App Store and this is the best for me.
• Having a personal trainer at your disposal can be great for staying diligent in your training, nutrition, and wellness journeys.
• Her work has been featured in numerous esteemed publications, spanning building, travel, and fashion.
• Most people who regularly follow a strength training or running program are looking to make improvements over time, whether that’s hitting new PRs in the gym, building muscle, or shaving time off your next race.

You can chat back and forth with your instructor through the app, and even have the opportunity to video call if you need a more involved discussion. We also gave the accountability a 5 out of 5, as your coach keeps you motivated with daily check-ins, reminders to log your workouts, and tips on where you can improve. 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.

start strong with one free workout session

“I think no matter where you are, there will be a workout you can do with the app,” says Lindsay. For competitive powerlifters, neither Hevy nor Fitbod provides the periodization programming they need — that’s where JuggernautAI becomes essential.

Train for any sport, with any device, any time indoors and out.

Her passion for exercise began during her childhood, where she spent weekends hiking and competing in local athletics club events. After earning a master’s degree in journalism from Cardiff University, Jessica found the perfect way to combine her love of storytelling and fitness into a career. The answer to this depends on what features you are looking for and if you own one of the best running watches or not. If you run without a watch, then Strava is a reliable app for tracking your running speed, distance, heart rate, and more. Relatively new to the running app market, Stride allows you to track your runs and walks via your phone’s GPS and play against other users nearby to control the biggest territory.

Best workout app for women

If you click on a run, you’ll be able to see your time, distance, and calories, as well as more in-depth data on your pace, speed, timing, heart rate, stamina, and more. Compared to Fitbit and Apple, Garmin Connect gives you a huge amount of data, without asking you to pay an additional monthly fee. The main plus with the Peloton app is its trainers – from Becs Gentry to Susie Chan. There are themed runs for runners who want to have fun, we particularly loved the Disney run, and you can tailor the runs by time or your goal. The sessions were extremely motivating and were easy to follow even using an iPhone propped up against the screen of the treadmill. Choose from over 22 different teams that focus on different workout styles, each with their own certified coach.

Choose options

You can also connect with your coach via the chat in the app if you ever have questions about your training or want to chat with other members on your team. The app’s creators believe that connection is the best way to stick to your goals. That’s why they set you up with a partner who can hold you accountable.

Yet despite these stereotypes, there are still a few good eggs in the app store — like Nike Training Club. We do recommend paying close attention to the equipment requirements before hopping into a session, though. This information is sort of buried in the details, and you could be left scrambling for a dumbbell or resistance band mid-workout if you don’t do your homework prior. Additionally, iFIT offers an AutoAdjust feature on their compatible devices, which automatically toggles your incline and speed settings in tune with your instructor’s commands.

The Alive app is SID class of 2024 trainer Gabrielle Savary’s “go-to” for strength training workouts. You can access Alive’s 100-plus daily workouts, over 10 programs, and multi-day challenges. The app has workouts for every skill level and equipment access, provides video demonstrations, and allows you to track your progress. Nike’s free fitness app is simple to navigate and offers more variety than many paid platforms.

There’s a basic community feed that allows you to view others’ workouts, but not much else. It’s a simple, streamlined app that’s very beginner-friendly, but it’s not the best choice if you prefer to have access to more advanced features. JuggernautAI costs slightly more than the average app, thought it offers a longer trial period than most so new users can experience the programming. If you’re not a powerlifter looking to boost your big three lifts, you may want to consider an app service like Shred, which offers workouts for a variety of fitness goals. The level of personalization, modification, versatility, and accountability you get for the price is, quite frankly, insane. There are a million and one fitness apps out there that hover around the same price point, but most don’t offer anything nearly as comprehensive as JuggernautAI.

IFIT offers fitness lovers versatility with machine-based classes and classes that do not require anything more than a towel or mat. Anyone looking for a home-exercise program will be hard pressed to find a more technology forward, expansive and inclusive platform than iFIT. Rather, we find it better suited for people who have been training for at least six months because it lacks some of the human coaching and motivational tools that gym novices may want.

What is the best free online workout program?

• We cover seven apps across eight decision categories, from AI coaching to Apple Watch integration.
• Make sure you either have these items, or you have the budget to purchase them.
• Paid plans are around $14.99 per month, but don’t be surprised if you get a discount as a first-time user.
• There are workout programs available on FitOn, but they’re shorter ones—about 2 to 4 weeks long.
• Each serving is formulated to support consistent performance, making it a strong option for both beginners and experienced lifters looking for a dependable pre workout.
• Workout plans that lacked a clear path to progression earned low 1-star scores from our team.

So, if you’re looking to save a bit of money, I’d highly recommend giving Coopah a go. It offers all the key features you need, just with a different interface, gentler pace targets, and slightly less cross-training support, which I cover in more detail in my full review of the Coopah app. Whether you’re just starting out, coming back from injury, or training for a milestone event like your first ultra.

Get tested and trusted tips, tricks and picks to create the home you want — straight to your inbox.

Looking for the best workout apps can be tough, especially if you’re looking for a free app. 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.

Get Fit, Don’t Quit

When I worked as a full-time personal trainer, the gym I worked at charged $70 for 60-minute one-on-one sessions. If you were to work with a personal trainer once a week, it would cost you $280 per month, or $3,360 per year. To earn 3 out of 5 stars, an app should have programs you can join that give you a structured workout schedule, but they are not coached programs or group programs (you just follow it on your own terms). Maybe you get push notifications, or there’s a feature where you can integrate the workout app with your online calendar, but no human support or interaction. If the app is generally OK after a short learning curve, testers could give the app a middle-of-the-road 3-star rating. 5-star ratings were reserved for apps with a seamless user experience where workouts were easy to find, see, hear, follow along with, and track post-training.

Exercise Guides & Muscles Worked

That said, though, the attention given to this group of app users is worthwhile enough for us to name Reverse Health as one of our favorite weight loss programs for women. I do like the included modules for chair yoga and personalized weight loss journeys, but I don’t believe there’s enough content to keep things interesting or engaging for extended periods. Plus, each chosen module has its own questionnaire, which can become annoying when trying to sign up for multiple sessions at once.

We also liked that it increased accountability, giving this category a 3.5 out of 5, as some apps have more involved accountability measures. Noom combines psychology and behavioral science with traditional weight loss features like meal and activity tracking, personal coaches, and online communities to help customers adopt a healthier lifestyle. Having a personal trainer at your disposal can be great for staying diligent in your training, nutrition, and wellness journeys.

How do you plan to invest in your education?

We’ve tried these apps ourselves to see if they’re easy to use, fun, and worth the money you need to pay in subscription fees. There are also handy features like Strava Beacon, which are designed to keep you safe, by allowing your friends or family members to track your live location on a run. However, if you use a non-Apple fitness tracker, you may be a bit limited for now. For example, I wasn’t able to connect my best Garmin watch to the SWEAT app.

Take Your Workout to the Next Level

WH lifestyle director Lindsay Geller has also been using it more than ever, thanks to their recently launched prenatal track. WH editors and SID trainers alike are obsessed with Ladder, which was co-founded by a WH advisory board member, Lauren Kanski, CPT. It gives you the best of both worlds with intense and effective guided workouts and personal training from actual coaches.

For those who are training for a race or looking to add running to their high-intensity workout regimen, I think Nike is among the best running apps. After using this app for years myself, I think this one is hard to beat, especially if you have new running goals. Set new running goals or just hit your weekly mileage with the free Nike Run Club app.

It should be noted that customer reviews are mixed, with some reviews even calling BetterMe a scam. These reviews mostly talked about the nutrition side of the app, and also complained about cancelling their subscription. We had no issues in our testing, however, and more recent reviews seem generally more positive. Read our Caliber App review to learn more about this premium fitness app. “Not only are there video demos for every movement in the Caliber app (which are really well-done), but you can even send form videos to your coach,” Amanda explains. TR[Ai]NER earned mostly 4s and 5s across the board, only falling short in categories like accountability and interactive features.

Also tested

You can choose from dumbbell-only, bodyweight-only, or HIIT programs. If you only have access to a home gym or something like a small apartment gym with limited equipment, you can tailor the workouts to whatever’s available. With the free version, you can log your own workouts, or let the Caliber algorithm create a custom workout program for you, based on a quick assessment while setting up the app. Caliber also records and charts strength progress and body metrics—body weight, waist size, and body fat percentage. Some are completely free or offer a free trial, and some require a monthly subscription. Your choice will ultimately depend on whether you think investing in a paid app will actually help you get closer to your goals and what you’re comfortable spending.

All-in-one, for the all-in athlete and coach.

This is generally more motivating than chasing after a goal on your own. Using a workout log app is one of the most effective ways to stay accountable, track progress, and improve your overall fitness routine. Whether you’re lifting at the gym, training at home, or running outdoors, these tools help simplify your workout planning and make tracking second nature. Adidas Training, formerly known as Runtastic Results, is a best workout apps flexible fitness log app that focuses on bodyweight and functional workouts.

Here are the best free workout apps without subscriptions to try in 2026:

So, if you’re performing an iFIT workout on a NordicTrack treadmill, your machine will react to the coach’s lead, providing an ever-changing cardio session to keep things fresh. BetterMe creates a plan for you based on your goals, so the daily workouts are populated. They have a workout library, too, so you can go off plan if you want to. The BetterMe app is Pilates-focused workout app aimed toward beginners. It has a nutrition function where you can track calories or gather healthy meal ideas. TR[Ai]NER by Element 26 is highly adaptable based on the information you give it.

“You’re really getting a lot for the price,” Amanda says, rating the level of instruction a 5 out of 5. While there is a paid plan available, the free plan provides plenty for most users, earning a 5 out of 5 for value. You’ll be able to access over a thousand strength-training programs, including over 100 programs created by certified expert coaches.

Best boutique workout app

TrainHeroic unifies your tools, tracking, and communication into a single command center—giving you the professional infrastructure to guide your athletes without the spreadsheet headaches. Eat healthier with personalized meal plans and 500+ exclusive recipes. We looked at how easy the apps were to download and use, whether they were compatible with most of the best running watches on the market, and how motivating they were on days when we just didn’t want to run.

Reverse Health is a weight-loss program app that’s specifically designed for people during and after menopause. If you are curious about your technique in a given workout, you can record yourself and send it to your coach for analysis and feedback. This may be a chore for some, but it’s also an example of the great lines of communication at play with Future.

HR Unisex Muscle Tank

Plenty of research1 has shown that following a workout routine can help improve your physical fitness and athletic performance, but getting a personalized training plan can be expensive. Yes, there are a number of free workout apps out there, such as Nike Training Club, delivering solid workout plans to help you mix up your training sessions. Additionally, some fitness apps offer free trial periods at the start of your subscription to help you get a feel for the workout variety and platform offerings. Apps of this kind, however, often limit your capabilities within the service until you ultimately sign up and pay for the membership. Budget is a big factor, even though most workout apps cost far less than regular sessions with a personal trainer.

Best running app for map building

Although the library of exercises is expansive, just be aware that the functionality is limited in the free version. Kate explains, “I entered all the movements for a weightlifting workout, but the app ordered them alphabetically instead of in the order I wanted. To move them, I would have had to upgrade to the Elite plan.” She also found it easier to navigate through the desktop version for workout plans, and then locate them on the app afterwards. While TR[Ai]NER doesn’t offer a free-forever plan, per se, it gives you up to three workout programs for free. Some programs last eight weeks, meaning you can follow the app (in theory) for up to six months before deciding whether to upgrade to how to choose personalized workout plans a paid plan.

The Best Workout Apps

Type “health apps” into the app store and you’ll be served hundreds of thousands of options (no, that isn’t a typo). Obviously that’s extremely overwhelming for anyone, but especially if you’re a beginner who doesn’t really know what you want out of your app. Daily Yoga is used by over 60 million yogis worldwide, and in just two weeks, the app claims to make a significant difference in your yoga journey. Furthermore, it offers an intense exercise method that not only stretches your body but also enhances your overall well-being. As a result, it goes far beyond meditation, providing a holistic experience that nurtures both your mind and body. Adidas Running is built for runners of all levels, from beginners to marathon training.

Bartha offers classes ranging from 15 to 60 minutes, so it’s easy to squeeze in a workout even if you’re short on time. And if you’re new to pilates, there are a ton of great tutorials and beginner-friendly workouts. Pvolve is an energizing and engaging online workout program with classes that will fire up muscles you didn’t even know you had. The workouts are great for toning, sculpting, lengthening, improving posture, and increasing mobility. Wood tested Future as well, and notes that as someone who sometimes needs a bit of a push to get a solo workout in, this level of daily interaction is huge.

Is there a free workout app?

• For example, I wasn’t able to connect my best Garmin watch to the SWEAT app.
• A free training program may have the power to free your mind of any woes about designing an effective workout for yourself and worry about more pressing matters (like what you’re going to have for dinner).
• I’ve tried most of the other training log apps on the App Store and this is the best for me.
• Having a personal trainer at your disposal can be great for staying diligent in your training, nutrition, and wellness journeys.
• Her work has been featured in numerous esteemed publications, spanning building, travel, and fashion.
• Most people who regularly follow a strength training or running program are looking to make improvements over time, whether that’s hitting new PRs in the gym, building muscle, or shaving time off your next race.

You can chat back and forth with your instructor through the app, and even have the opportunity to video call if you need a more involved discussion. We also gave the accountability a 5 out of 5, as your coach keeps you motivated with daily check-ins, reminders to log your workouts, and tips on where you can improve. 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.

start strong with one free workout session

“I think no matter where you are, there will be a workout you can do with the app,” says Lindsay. For competitive powerlifters, neither Hevy nor Fitbod provides the periodization programming they need — that’s where JuggernautAI becomes essential.

Train for any sport, with any device, any time indoors and out.

Her passion for exercise began during her childhood, where she spent weekends hiking and competing in local athletics club events. After earning a master’s degree in journalism from Cardiff University, Jessica found the perfect way to combine her love of storytelling and fitness into a career. The answer to this depends on what features you are looking for and if you own one of the best running watches or not. If you run without a watch, then Strava is a reliable app for tracking your running speed, distance, heart rate, and more. Relatively new to the running app market, Stride allows you to track your runs and walks via your phone’s GPS and play against other users nearby to control the biggest territory.

Best workout app for women

If you click on a run, you’ll be able to see your time, distance, and calories, as well as more in-depth data on your pace, speed, timing, heart rate, stamina, and more. Compared to Fitbit and Apple, Garmin Connect gives you a huge amount of data, without asking you to pay an additional monthly fee. The main plus with the Peloton app is its trainers – from Becs Gentry to Susie Chan. There are themed runs for runners who want to have fun, we particularly loved the Disney run, and you can tailor the runs by time or your goal. The sessions were extremely motivating and were easy to follow even using an iPhone propped up against the screen of the treadmill. Choose from over 22 different teams that focus on different workout styles, each with their own certified coach.

Choose options

You can also connect with your coach via the chat in the app if you ever have questions about your training or want to chat with other members on your team. The app’s creators believe that connection is the best way to stick to your goals. That’s why they set you up with a partner who can hold you accountable.

Yet despite these stereotypes, there are still a few good eggs in the app store — like Nike Training Club. We do recommend paying close attention to the equipment requirements before hopping into a session, though. This information is sort of buried in the details, and you could be left scrambling for a dumbbell or resistance band mid-workout if you don’t do your homework prior. Additionally, iFIT offers an AutoAdjust feature on their compatible devices, which automatically toggles your incline and speed settings in tune with your instructor’s commands.

The Alive app is SID class of 2024 trainer Gabrielle Savary’s “go-to” for strength training workouts. You can access Alive’s 100-plus daily workouts, over 10 programs, and multi-day challenges. The app has workouts for every skill level and equipment access, provides video demonstrations, and allows you to track your progress. Nike’s free fitness app is simple to navigate and offers more variety than many paid platforms.

There’s a basic community feed that allows you to view others’ workouts, but not much else. It’s a simple, streamlined app that’s very beginner-friendly, but it’s not the best choice if you prefer to have access to more advanced features. JuggernautAI costs slightly more than the average app, thought it offers a longer trial period than most so new users can experience the programming. If you’re not a powerlifter looking to boost your big three lifts, you may want to consider an app service like Shred, which offers workouts for a variety of fitness goals. The level of personalization, modification, versatility, and accountability you get for the price is, quite frankly, insane. There are a million and one fitness apps out there that hover around the same price point, but most don’t offer anything nearly as comprehensive as JuggernautAI.

Apple Fitness Plus is the best workout app if you’re embedded in the company’s ecosystem, especially if you use an Apple Watch. There are HIIT, strength, core, yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes, taught by a range of different trainers. Different fitness apps can vary in price, depending on the membership you choose and the amount of first-person coaching. Our team selected apps with a variety of prices, so there’s something for everyone. Fitness apps can be handy tools for supporting your training and nutrition goals, especially if you’re at the starting line of your training, still wondering, “what is cardio?

A full gym & wellness coach. Always On.

A standout feature of the TR[Ai]NER app is its clean, simple interface. Our tester was able to set it up in less than a minute and was impressed with its user-friendly design. To learn more about this AI-powered circuit training app, be sure to check out our full Shred App review. If you want a plan that’s truly customized to your needs and goals by a human coach, you may want to consider a platform like Future. 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.

Health

For dedicated internal guidance on progressive overload methods, see our guide to progressive overload for beginners. For pure tracking with no budget, Hevy’s free tier edges out most competitors on interface cleanliness and social integration. If you only need to log sets and reps and see basic progress lines, you may never need to upgrade.

BodySpace

Whether you’re lifting weights, running, or doing home workouts, using a workout log apps can help you monitor progress, adjust routines, and stay motivated. If you’re looking for long-term workout plans, FitOn may not be ideal. There are workout programs available on FitOn, but they’re shorter ones—about 2 to 4 weeks long. That’s not enough time to make much progress.” Also, the community feed is present and available, but basic, earning just a 3 out of 5. Still, the amount of workouts you get with this app may still be worth it. However, ClassPass also has a database of workout videos that are completely free to users; you don’t even need to be on a subscription plan.

Along with the different courses, you’ll run alongside other people, using their times for encouragement or competition. If you find yourself doing a lot of exercising at home these days, Zwift can help you change up your surroundings while you shelter in place. And the mobile app even adds a little gamification to your runs as part of the bargain.

Other Interactive Features

To compile our list of the best free workout apps, we used the same methodology, except for the caveat that the app had to have a free version. As for accountability and interactive features, there aren’t a lot in this running app. Push notifications are present, and you can create and join plans to help with holding yourself accountable—but that’s only present in the premium version. There is basic community interaction through a community feed, but if you’re looking for a lot of support in your fitness journey, you may want to look for a different running app. Also known as Map My Run, the best free workout app for runners goes to Map My Fitness, with its expansive GPS tracking and other free features.

Find your coach

When you log a workout, the app will give you neat little celebrations; for example, I was told my total tonnage after a squat workout was like lifting a car. It’s the little things, but that sort of interaction can help people through tough days. When I think of an app for a beginner, I would want value, ease of use, and good instruction.

Best Workout App for Weightlifting: TR(AI)NER by Element 26

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. This app costs $25 a month ($135 a year) but lets you test it for free for seven days if you’re a new member. This is a good way to determine if the workouts on the app are the right fit for you and your goals. In late 2022, Netflix added a range of Nike Training Club workouts to its library. You could access these for free (so long as you have a Netflix subscription) and do the 10 or 20-minute sessions wherever you are.

How We Picked and Tested the Best Workout Apps

• She thinks of herself as someone who’s “really terrible at meditation,” but she says she felt like Headspace did a nice job of keeping her focused.
• Caliber also has a live community for motivation and support within the app.
• While TR[Ai]NER doesn’t offer a free-forever plan, per se, it gives you up to three workout programs for free.
• As well as joining challenges, and downloading a training plan onto your watch, you can use Garmin Connect to drill down into the data of your workouts.
• If you are doing abdominal exercises in the hope of getting a strong core and a flat stomach, you aren’t alone…
• This beginner-friendly workout app can be accommodating for a range of different skill sets and equipment setups.

So choosing the best running app for your needs depends heavily on what you want to use the app for — Tracking your stats? We only recommend the apps that have genuinely enhanced our running experience, in the hope that we can help many other runners benefit from them too. Discover new features designed to help you lock in and level up your workouts. Nitric oxide plays an important role in vasodilation, which helps widen blood vessels and improve circulation throughout the body. Ingredients commonly found in nitric oxide support supplements help increase the availability of nitric oxide precursors, potentially leading to enhanced muscle pumps and nutrient delivery during training.

REAL WORKOUTS.

There is also a section for ‘helpful tips’ that includes videos about how to start and what to expect. Then there is a place to schedule live sessions, a place to track your progress, and a settings tab where you can update your coverage or change your provider,” she says. During testing, Caliber earned a near-perfect (4.68 out of 5) score, earning it the top spot on our best workout apps roundup. When it comes to fitness, consistency is key, and this app makes exercising a cinch!

Personalization

Because of this, she ultimately gave it a 4 out of 5 for ease of use. As for the app itself, it earned a total score of 4.23 after being tested by Kate Meier, certified personal trainer and GGR head of content. Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and former GGR team member, tested the app and said the only thing better would be working with a personal trainer in person. HeavySet is a smart exercise log app that adapts to your workout habits using predictive logging and fluid design. It’s built for iOS users who want to focus on serious lifting while enjoying a seamless experience.

That said, hiring an individual for these needs can have hourly rates ranging from $25 to over $100. (1) Thankfully, Caliber offers three tiers of mad muscles review subscriptions that cater to a variety of budgets. If you’re looking for an immersive training experience that’s rich with motivation, advice, and engagement, we highly recommend subscribing to Future. Yes, the monthly membership is expensive at $199, but with that you’re essentially getting a full-fledged personal trainer in your pocket (or on your watch or TV). Accountability needs vary a lot depending on lifestyle and personality.

IFIT offers fitness lovers versatility with machine-based classes and classes that do not require anything more than a towel or mat. Anyone looking for a home-exercise program will be hard pressed to find a more technology forward, expansive and inclusive platform than iFIT. Rather, we find it better suited for people who have been training for at least six months because it lacks some of the human coaching and motivational tools that gym novices may want.

What is the best free online workout program?

• We cover seven apps across eight decision categories, from AI coaching to Apple Watch integration.
• Make sure you either have these items, or you have the budget to purchase them.
• Paid plans are around $14.99 per month, but don’t be surprised if you get a discount as a first-time user.
• There are workout programs available on FitOn, but they’re shorter ones—about 2 to 4 weeks long.
• Each serving is formulated to support consistent performance, making it a strong option for both beginners and experienced lifters looking for a dependable pre workout.
• Workout plans that lacked a clear path to progression earned low 1-star scores from our team.

So, if you’re looking to save a bit of money, I’d highly recommend giving Coopah a go. It offers all the key features you need, just with a different interface, gentler pace targets, and slightly less cross-training support, which I cover in more detail in my full review of the Coopah app. Whether you’re just starting out, coming back from injury, or training for a milestone event like your first ultra.

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Looking for the best workout apps can be tough, especially if you’re looking for a free app. 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.

Get Fit, Don’t Quit

When I worked as a full-time personal trainer, the gym I worked at charged $70 for 60-minute one-on-one sessions. If you were to work with a personal trainer once a week, it would cost you $280 per month, or $3,360 per year. To earn 3 out of 5 stars, an app should have programs you can join that give you a structured workout schedule, but they are not coached programs or group programs (you just follow it on your own terms). Maybe you get push notifications, or there’s a feature where you can integrate the workout app with your online calendar, but no human support or interaction. If the app is generally OK after a short learning curve, testers could give the app a middle-of-the-road 3-star rating. 5-star ratings were reserved for apps with a seamless user experience where workouts were easy to find, see, hear, follow along with, and track post-training.

Exercise Guides & Muscles Worked

That said, though, the attention given to this group of app users is worthwhile enough for us to name Reverse Health as one of our favorite weight loss programs for women. I do like the included modules for chair yoga and personalized weight loss journeys, but I don’t believe there’s enough content to keep things interesting or engaging for extended periods. Plus, each chosen module has its own questionnaire, which can become annoying when trying to sign up for multiple sessions at once.

We also liked that it increased accountability, giving this category a 3.5 out of 5, as some apps have more involved accountability measures. Noom combines psychology and behavioral science with traditional weight loss features like meal and activity tracking, personal coaches, and online communities to help customers adopt a healthier lifestyle. Having a personal trainer at your disposal can be great for staying diligent in your training, nutrition, and wellness journeys.

How do you plan to invest in your education?

We’ve tried these apps ourselves to see if they’re easy to use, fun, and worth the money you need to pay in subscription fees. There are also handy features like Strava Beacon, which are designed to keep you safe, by allowing your friends or family members to track your live location on a run. However, if you use a non-Apple fitness tracker, you may be a bit limited for now. For example, I wasn’t able to connect my best Garmin watch to the SWEAT app.

Take Your Workout to the Next Level

WH lifestyle director Lindsay Geller has also been using it more than ever, thanks to their recently launched prenatal track. WH editors and SID trainers alike are obsessed with Ladder, which was co-founded by a WH advisory board member, Lauren Kanski, CPT. It gives you the best of both worlds with intense and effective guided workouts and personal training from actual coaches.

For those who are training for a race or looking to add running to their high-intensity workout regimen, I think Nike is among the best running apps. After using this app for years myself, I think this one is hard to beat, especially if you have new running goals. Set new running goals or just hit your weekly mileage with the free Nike Run Club app.

It should be noted that customer reviews are mixed, with some reviews even calling BetterMe a scam. These reviews mostly talked about the nutrition side of the app, and also complained about cancelling their subscription. We had no issues in our testing, however, and more recent reviews seem generally more positive. Read our Caliber App review to learn more about this premium fitness app. “Not only are there video demos for every movement in the Caliber app (which are really well-done), but you can even send form videos to your coach,” Amanda explains. TR[Ai]NER earned mostly 4s and 5s across the board, only falling short in categories like accountability and interactive features.

Also tested

You can choose from dumbbell-only, bodyweight-only, or HIIT programs. If you only have access to a home gym or something like a small apartment gym with limited equipment, you can tailor the workouts to whatever’s available. With the free version, you can log your own workouts, or let the Caliber algorithm create a custom workout program for you, based on a quick assessment while setting up the app. Caliber also records and charts strength progress and body metrics—body weight, waist size, and body fat percentage. Some are completely free or offer a free trial, and some require a monthly subscription. Your choice will ultimately depend on whether you think investing in a paid app will actually help you get closer to your goals and what you’re comfortable spending.

All-in-one, for the all-in athlete and coach.

This is generally more motivating than chasing after a goal on your own. Using a workout log app is one of the most effective ways to stay accountable, track progress, and improve your overall fitness routine. Whether you’re lifting at the gym, training at home, or running outdoors, these tools help simplify your workout planning and make tracking second nature. Adidas Training, formerly known as Runtastic Results, is a best workout apps flexible fitness log app that focuses on bodyweight and functional workouts.

Here are the best free workout apps without subscriptions to try in 2026:

So, if you’re performing an iFIT workout on a NordicTrack treadmill, your machine will react to the coach’s lead, providing an ever-changing cardio session to keep things fresh. BetterMe creates a plan for you based on your goals, so the daily workouts are populated. They have a workout library, too, so you can go off plan if you want to. The BetterMe app is Pilates-focused workout app aimed toward beginners. It has a nutrition function where you can track calories or gather healthy meal ideas. TR[Ai]NER by Element 26 is highly adaptable based on the information you give it.