With so many fitness apps on the market, how do you know which one to choose? Here are some factors to consider before downloading:
- Credible instructors. For safety purposes and best results, we recommend choosing an app with workouts that are created or led by certified fitness experts.
- Fitness goals. Do you want to build strength or run faster? Or maybe you’re interested in losing weight or becoming more flexible. Whatever your motivation is, be sure to select an app that caters to your exercise needs.
- Budget. While some are totally free, most apps require a monthly subscription cost. Luckily, all the apps on our list offer a free trial period, so you can try a few classes before going all in.
- Equipment needed. Most apps offer classes that require some equipment, such as yoga blocks, dumbbells, or kettlebells. Unless you’re willing to purchase new gym equipment, look for an app with classes that are compatible with your current home gym setup.
- User reviews. While you should definitely take reviews with a grain of salt, reading what other users think can be valuable intel as you decide whether a workout app will be the right fit for you.
There’s nothing wrong with trying out a few fitness apps before settling on one — the most important thing is that it helps you reach your goals safely and effectively.
Best free fitness app
Nike Training Club
Work out with Nike trainers live or on demand with the Nike Training Club app. After downloading the app, you’ll get customized workout suggestions based on the results of a quick quiz.
The app offers a range of exercise styles, including high intensity interval training (HIIT), yoga, core, cardio, and strength training workouts. You can also search by muscle group, workout focus, and equipment to find your perfect class.
As a bonus, in 2020, Nike made its premium content free for all users.
Best app for group fitness lovers
obé Fitness
obé Fitness brings the feel of a boutique group fitness class to your living room with more than 15 types of classes, including HIIT, dance cardio, sculpt, and more.
The app offers 20 live classes each day — filmed in a fun neon studio — in addition to its extensive on-demand library of more than 7,000 classes.
Workouts range from 10 minutes to an hour long. The top-notch instructors bring the energy and will even shout you out during the live classes.
It’s also a favorite of Healthline Nutrition and Fitness Editor Kelli McGrane, MS, RD, who appreciates that the large selection of 20-minute classes makes it easy (and fun) to squeeze a sweat session into her day.
Best tried-and-true fitness app
Peloton
Peloton is best known for its cycling classes, but with the Peloton digital app you can access workouts from strength training and HIIT to outdoor running and yoga.
You can work out in real time with expert instructors and other members from around the world or take one of the app’s