Starting a fitness journey is like embarking on an exciting adventure. You know you want to get healthier, stronger, or maybe just more active, but where do you begin? With so many paths to choose, it’s easy to feel lost. That’s where fitness apps come in handy, especially for beginners. These digital companions offer guidance, motivation, and personalized plans to fit your goals, all from the convenience of your phone. The best part? Many of them are free!
“In this article, you will learn:”
- About the top 10 free fitness plan apps perfect for beginners.
- Each app’s overview, cost details, standout features, and the pros and cons to help you decide.
- Tips on picking the right fitness app that matches your journey and goals.
Let’s jump in and find the fitness app that could become your new workout buddy, guiding you towards a healthier lifestyle with each tap and swipe.
10+ Best Free Workout Apps that You Should Know
- FitOn
- Nike Training Club
- C25K
- Strava
- Jefit
- Aaptiv
- Fitbod
- Sworkit
- Daily Yoga
- Survival Fitness Plan
- MyFitnessPal
5 Factors to Consider in a Good Fitness Plan App
When you’re ready to pick a fitness app, think about what’s important to you. Is it like having a personal trainer in your pocket, or do you need something to make exercise fun? Here are some things to keep in mind:
- It Should Be Easy to Use: You want an app that’s like a friendly coach, easy to understand and navigate, so you spend more time working out and less time figuring out how to use it.
- Personalized Plans: The best app understands you. Whether you’re a morning jogger or a weightlifting wizard, it should offer workouts that match your level and goals.
- Track Your Progress: Seeing how far you’ve come is a big motivator. Look for apps that celebrate your milestones and show you your improvements.
- Community Support: Sometimes, we all need a cheerleader. Apps with a community can connect you with fellow fitness friends for that extra push.
- Variety of Workouts: To keep things exciting, choose an app that offers different types of workouts. This way, you can try something new and keep your body guessing.
Make sure, the best app for you is one that makes you feel good about moving more. It’s like finding the right pair of sneakers; when it fits, you’ll know.
Now, it’s time to explore the all apps!
1) FitOn: Your Personal Fitness Buddy
Imagine having a personal trainer in your pocket, ready to motivate you anytime, anywhere – that’s FitOn. This app brings professional workouts to your home, making it easy for beginners to get started. With FitOn, you can explore a variety of workouts, from yoga to high-intensity interval training (HIIT), all tailored to fit your schedule.
The app is like your personal fitness studio that fits in your pocket, available anytime, anywhere. With classes that range from 5 to 60 minutes, it caters to your schedule, no matter how busy you are. Plus, its social feature lets you join friends for group workouts, making fitness a shared experience.
FitOn’s approach is all about making premium fitness accessible for everyone, turning your living room into a gym at no cost. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking to spice up your fitness routine without breaking the bank.
Fee/Paid
Price: Free with optional premium features.
Key Features of FitOn
- Wide range of workouts
- Personalized fitness plans
- Celebrity trainers
- Community support
- Integration with health apps
Pros of FitOn App
- No equipment needed for many workouts
- Workouts for all fitness levels
- Easy to follow along
- Motivating community aspect
- Free version offers plenty of value
Cons of FitOn App
- Premium features require subscription
- Limited offline options
Rating
4.8/5 – A favorite for beginners and seasoned fitness enthusiasts alike.
2) Nike Training Club: Train Like a Pro
Nike Training Club (NTC) is like having a world-class Nike trainer coaching you right in your living room. This app is perfect for beginners who want to start strong, offering a wide variety of workouts designed by Nike’s top trainers. Whether you’re into strength training, yoga, or cardio, NTC has got you covered with plans tailored to all fitness levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, NTC provides detailed instructions and training plans tailored to help you reach your fitness goals. The app encourages you to push your limits, offering a variety of workout intensities and durations to fit your lifestyle.
With inspirational advice and wellness guidance, NTC is more than just a workout app; it’s a holistic fitness companion. The community features and the option to share your achievements add a social dimension, making it easier to stay motivated and connected with fellow fitness enthusiasts.
Fee/Paid
Price: Free with optional premium features.
Key Features of Nike Training Club
- Professional trainer-designed workouts
- Personalized training plans
- Extensive library of exercises
- Motivational community
- Integration with Nike wearables
Pros of Nike Training Club App
- Comprehensive workout library
- High-quality video guides
- Customizable workout plans
- Encouraging community challenges
- Free content is extensive
Cons of Nike Training Club App
- Premium content behind paywall
- Some features require Nike products
Rating
4.7/5 – A top choice for those looking to bring professional training home.
3) C25K: From Couch to 5K Made Easy
C25K, short for Couch to 5K, is your perfect starting line if you’re dreaming of running your first 5K. This app gently guides beginners from zero to running 5 kilometers in just 8 weeks. With a mix of walking and running, it’s designed to get you race-ready without feeling overwhelmed.
The app is designed to gradually increase the running intervals, allowing your body to adapt without getting overwhelmed. With voice prompts to guide you through each workout, you can focus on your run without constantly checking your phone.
C25K not only prepares you for a 5K but also instills a love for running, making it a sustainable part of your fitness routine. It’s ideal for anyone looking to take their first steps into running in a guided, supportive, and effective way.
Fee/Paid
Price: Free with optional in-app purchases.
Key Features of C25K
- 8-week training plan
- Voice-guided workouts
- Integrates with music apps
- Track your progress
- Suitable for all fitness levels
Pros of C25K App
- Beginner-friendly running plan
- Motivates gradual progress
- Easy-to-follow workout instructions
- Can listen to your music while running
- Encourages rest days for recovery
Cons of C25K App
- Ads in the free version
- Limited features without purchase
Rating
4.6/5 – Ideal for anyone looking to lace up their running shoes and hit the pavement with confidence.
4) Strava: Connect and Compete with Athletes Worldwide
Strava isn’t just a fitness app; it’s a social network for anyone who loves to move. Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, or just enjoy a leisurely walk, Strava turns your phone into a sophisticated tracker, recording your routes, pace, and more. It’s perfect for beginners who want to see their progress and connect with a supportive community.
The app excels in mapping your routes, recording detailed statistics about your workouts, and providing a platform to compete and share your achievements. Strava’s segment feature adds a competitive edge, allowing you to compare your times against others who have completed the same routes.
It’s an app that not only motivates you to push your boundaries but also celebrates your successes, big or small, with a community that understands your passion.
Fee/Paid
Price: Free with optional premium subscription.
Key Features of Strava
- Activity tracking for various sports
- Social networking features
- Personalized challenges
- Detailed performance analytics
- Route discovery and planning
Pros of Strava App
- Connects with GPS devices and smartwatches
- Encourages community engagement and competition
- Offers detailed insights into your activities
- Allows for exploring and sharing routes
- Free version includes a lot of great features
Cons of Strava App
- Premium features can be costly
- Can be competitive, which might not suit everyone
Rating
4.7/5 – A fantastic choice for those who find motivation in community and competition.
5) Jefit: Your Digital Workout Companion
Jefit is like having a personal gym trainer and workout planner rolled into one. Designed for those who love lifting weights and strength training, this app offers thousands of exercises to choose from. It’s great for beginners looking to build muscle, gain strength, and track their progress every step of the way.
Jefit tracks your progress, showing you how much you’ve lifted over time and where you’re improving. Its rest timer ensures you’re getting adequate recovery between sets, making your workouts more efficient.
The app is not just about logging workouts; it’s about making you a smarter athlete. Whether you’re at home or in the gym, Jefit provides the tools you need to achieve your strength training goals, offering instructional videos and detailed exercise routines for all levels.
Fee/Paid
Price: Free with optional premium subscription.
Key Features of Jefit
- Extensive exercise library
- Customizable workout routines
- Detailed tracking of workouts and progress
- Social features to connect with friends
- Syncs across devices
Pros of Jefit App
- Tailored to strength training enthusiasts
- Allows for detailed exercise logging
- Easy to create and follow personalized routines
- Encourages progress tracking and goal setting
- Large community for support and motivation
Cons of Jefit App
- Interface can be overwhelming for new users
- Premium version needed for full feature access
Rating
4.7/5 – A powerhouse app for anyone looking to get serious about strength training.
6) Aaptiv: Workouts that Listen to You
Aaptiv brings a unique twist to your fitness journey: it’s all audio. Imagine having a personal trainer right in your ear, guiding you through every step, squat, and stretch. Aaptiv offers a variety of workouts, from running to strength training and yoga, all designed to keep you moving without having to look at a screen. It’s perfect for beginners who prefer guidance without the distraction of visuals.
The app’s trainers provide encouragement and clear instructions throughout each workout, backed by motivating music tailored to the pace of your activity. Aaptiv updates its content library weekly, ensuring you always have fresh workouts to keep your routine exciting.
It’s perfect for busy individuals looking for an effective, flexible workout option that fits into their lifestyle, not the other way around. Aaptiv is your companion for home workouts, gym sessions, and outdoor activities, offering a personalized fitness experience right in your ear.
Fee/Paid
Price: Membership-based, with a free trial available.
Key Features of Aaptiv
- Thousands of audio-guided workouts
- New classes added weekly
- Music that matches your workout pace
- Programs for all fitness levels
- Tracks your performance
Pros of Aaptiv App
- Hands-free workout experience
- Diverse workout categories to choose from
- Motivational coaches and music
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor activities
- Helps focus on form and technique
Cons of Aaptiv App
- Requires a subscription for full access
- No visual cues, which might be challenging for some exercises
Rating
4.5/5 – Ideal for those who want a focused and flexible workout experience, guided by the power of voice.
7) Fitbod: Tailored Strength Training for Every Body
Fitbod takes the guesswork out of strength training. Whether you’re stepping into the gym for the first time or looking to shake up your routine, Fitbod designs workouts that adapt to your fitness level, available equipment, and goals. It’s like having a personal trainer that learns and grows with you, ensuring you get the most out of every workout.
The app uses AI to adjust your plan based on your progress, ensuring you’re always challenged without being overwhelmed. With a variety of exercises and detailed video guides, Fitbod helps you execute each movement correctly, maximizing the effectiveness of your workouts.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced lifter, Fitbod keeps your strength training journey fresh and focused on your personal growth. It’s like having a personal trainer in your pocket, ready to guide you through each workout with precision and encouragement.
Fee/Paid
Price: Free to download with in-app purchases for a full feature set.
Key Features of Fitbod
- Personalized workout plans
- Adapts to your equipment, from full gym to bodyweight only
- Detailed exercise instructions and videos
- Tracks your progress and adjusts workouts accordingly
- Integrates with Apple Health
Pros of Fitbod App
- Customizable to your available equipment and goals
- Focuses on progressive strength training
- Offers a wide variety of exercises
- Easy-to-follow workout guidance
- Helps in tracking and improving performance over time
Cons of Fitbod App
- Full features require a subscription
- Primarily focused on strength training, less on cardio or flexibility
Rating
4.8/5 – A standout choice for those looking to personalize their strength training journey, regardless of their starting point.
8) Sworkit: Fitness That Fits Into Your Life
Sworkit is your go-to app for getting fit on your terms. Whether you have five minutes or an hour, Sworkit fits into your schedule, offering a wide range of workouts from strength and cardio to yoga and stretching. It’s designed for all levels, making it perfect for beginners who are just starting their fitness journey or anyone looking to squeeze a quick workout into a busy day.
The app allows you to customize the length of your workouts to fit your schedule, removing the barrier of not having enough time to exercise. Sworkit’s exercises require no equipment, meaning you can work out wherever you are, making it easier to stay consistent.
For those new to fitness or anyone struggling to find time for exercise, Sworkit offers a practical solution that adapts to your life, not the other way around.
Fee/Paid
Price: Free trial with subscription options for full access.
Key Features of Sworkit
- Customizable workout lengths
- Variety of workout types
- No equipment necessary for most workouts
- Suitable for all fitness levels
- Workout plans tailored to your goals
Pros of Sworkit App
- Highly flexible workout scheduling
- Offers both quick and comprehensive workouts
- Easy-to-follow video guides
- Focuses on bodyweight exercises
- Encourages consistency with personalized plans
Cons of Sworkit App
- Subscription required for full feature access
- May lack depth for advanced users seeking specific training
Rating
4.6/5 – Great for anyone looking to make fitness a flexible, integral part of their daily routine.
9) Daily Yoga: Good Free Workout Apps
Daily Yoga offers a sanctuary for both your body and mind, inviting you to join a global community of yogis. Whether you’re just starting your yoga journey or looking to deepen your practice, this app provides a wide range of sessions tailored to all levels. With Daily Yoga, you can find balance, flexibility, and strength through guided yoga flows, meditation, and more, all designed to fit into your daily life.
With over 500 asanas, guided classes, and personalized plans, the app encourages you to practice yoga daily, fostering both physical and mental well-being. Daily Yoga creates a serene space for you to explore various yoga styles, meditation, and Pilates, promoting flexibility, strength, and mindfulness.
The app’s community features allow you to connect with fellow yogis, share experiences, and find support on your wellness journey. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day, start your morning with energy, or deepen your yoga practice, Daily Yoga guides you every step of the way, making the ancient practice of yoga accessible and enriching for modern life.
Fee/Paid
Price: Free with in-app purchases for premium content.
Key Features of Daily Yoga
- Over 500 asanas and yoga sessions
- Guided meditation tracks
- Yoga plans for health, fitness, and strength
- Community support and challenges
- Personalized yoga coaching
Pros of Daily Yoga App
- Extensive library of yoga practices
- Sessions for all levels and goals
- Focus on mental and physical well-being
- Encourages daily practice with new content
- Connects you with a global yoga community
Cons of Daily Yoga App
- Most comprehensive content locked behind subscription
- May be overwhelming for absolute beginners due to the vast options
Rating
4.7/5 – An excellent resource for anyone looking to explore or expand their yoga practice in a supportive, virtual environment.
10) Survival Fitness Plan: Get Fit, Stay Prepared
Survival Fitness Plan is not your typical fitness app. It’s designed for those who want to push their limits and prepare for any situation. Combining physical fitness with survival skills, this app offers unique workouts that not only get you in shape but also equip you with the knowledge to handle emergencies.
It’s perfect for beginners interested in fitness with a practical edge, teaching you to be strong, agile, and ready for anything. It’s an app that not only gets you in shape but also equips you with knowledge that could prove invaluable in unexpected situations.
Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or someone who values being prepared, Survival Fitness Plan offers a distinctive fitness experience that empowers you physically and mentally.
Fee/Paid
Price: Free with options for in-app purchases.
Key Features of Survival Fitness Plan
- Workouts focused on survival skills
- Tips on emergency preparedness
- Physical and mental fitness challenges
- Guides on self-defense and first aid
- Community-driven challenges and achievements
Pros of Survival Fitness Plan App
- Unique blend of fitness and survival training
- Practical skills for real-world scenarios
- Engages both body and mind
- Encourages outdoor activity and awareness
- Builds confidence in handling emergencies
Cons of Survival Fitness Plan App
- Niche focus may not appeal to all fitness enthusiasts
- Requires commitment to fully benefit from the survival aspects
Rating
4.5/5 – A fascinating choice for anyone looking to combine their fitness routine with practical survival skills.
11) MyFitnessPal: More Than Just a Fitness App
MyFitnessPal is your all-in-one tracker for a healthier lifestyle. It’s not just about workouts; this app helps you monitor your diet, water intake, and exercise, making it a holistic companion on your fitness journey. Ideal for beginners, MyFitnessPal offers a user-friendly platform to set and achieve health goals, track progress, and learn about nutrition, all while staying motivated.
With the largest food database of any health app, MyFitnessPal makes logging meals and snacks easy and educational, helping you understand the nutritional value of your food choices.
The app also integrates with other fitness apps and devices, providing a holistic view of your health. Whether you’re trying to lose weight, gain muscle, or simply maintain a healthy lifestyle, MyFitnessPal offers the tools and community support to help you achieve your goals. It’s an essential app for anyone serious about taking control of their health.
Fee/Paid
Price: Free with premium upgrades available.
Key Features of MyFitnessPal
- Comprehensive food diary and calorie counter
- Barcode scanner for easy food logging
- Customizable diet and exercise plans
- Integration with other fitness apps and devices
- Supportive community and motivational challenges
Pros of MyFitnessPal App
- Extensive database of foods for accurate tracking
- Helps in creating a balanced diet alongside fitness routines
- User-friendly interface and easy tracking
- Encourages holistic health management
- Free version offers robust features
Cons of MyFitnessPal App
- Premium subscription required for detailed analytics
- Ads can be intrusive in the free version
Rating
4.9/5 – A must-have for anyone serious about tracking their fitness and nutrition in tandem to achieve their health goals.
Top 10 Free Fitness Apps for Beginners: Features, Pros, Cons & Ratings Compared
Choosing the right fitness app can be overwhelming with so many options available. To help you decide, we’ve created a comparison table that highlights the key features, pricing, pros, cons, and ratings of the top 10 fitness plan apps for beginners.
Let’s take a closer look to find the perfect fit for your fitness journey.
| App Name | Price | Key Feature | Pros | Cons | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FitOn | Free/Premium Options | Wide range of workouts | No equipment needed | Premium features subscription | 4.8/5 |
| Nike Training Club | Free/Premium Options | Professional workouts | Comprehensive library | Premium content behind paywall | 4.7/5 |
| C25K | Free with Ads | 8-week plan to 5K | Beginner-friendly | Ads in free version | 4.6/5 |
| Strava | Free/Premium Options | Activity tracking | Social network features | Premium features can be costly | 4.7/5 |
| Jefit | Free/Premium Options | Extensive exercise library | Tailored to strength training | Interface can be overwhelming | 4.7/5 |
| Aaptiv | Membership Required | Audio-guided workouts | Hands-free experience | Requires subscription | 4.5/5 |
| Fitbod | Free/Premium Options | Personalized workouts | Customizable plans | Full features require subscription | 4.8/5 |
| Sworkit | Free Trial/Subscriptions | Customizable workout lengths | Highly flexible | Subscription for full access | 4.6/5 |
| Daily Yoga | Free/Premium Options | Over 500 asanas | Focus on well-being | Comprehensive content locked | 4.7/5 |
| Survival Fitness Plan | Free with In-App Purchases | Fitness and survival skills | Unique blend of training | Niche focus | 4.5/5 |
| MyFitnessPal | Free/Premium Options | Comprehensive tracking | Extensive food database | Ads in free version | 4.9/5 |
Choosing the Right Fitness App for You
Picking the right fitness app is a bit like choosing what to watch on TV. There are tons of options, but not all of them will catch your interest. Here’s how to find the app that clicks with you:
- Know Your Goals: What’s your mission? To run a 5K, get stronger, or maybe just move a bit more each day? Start with your end goal in mind.
- Lifestyle Fit: Are you always on the go, or do you have a set workout time? Your app should fit into your life seamlessly, making it easier to stick to your plan.
- Workout Preferences: Do you love yoga, or are high-intensity workouts more your style? Look for an app that specializes in what you enjoy.
- Trial and Error: Don’t be afraid to test-drive a few apps. Most have free versions or trial periods, so you can see which one you vibe with the most.
- Check the Reviews: What are other people saying? Sometimes, the best insights come from fellow users who’ve been in your shoes.
Finding the right fitness app can be the key to unlocking your motivation and making exercise a part of your daily routine. When you find that perfect match, working out feels less like a chore and more like a fun part of your day.
The Future of Fitness Apps
Imagine if your fitness app knew exactly what workout you needed on any given day or could predict when you’d need a little extra encouragement to hit your goals. The future of fitness apps is looking bright and smart, with some cool changes on the horizon:
- Personalized Workouts: Future apps might use AI to create workouts that adapt to how you’re feeling and what you need that day, making every session feel tailor-made for you.
- Virtual Reality Workouts: Think about putting on a VR headset and suddenly, you’re cycling through the Alps or doing yoga on a beach at sunset. VR could make workouts an adventure.
- Integration with Wearables: Your fitness app and wearable devices will become best friends, sharing information to give you detailed insights into your health and progress.
- Gamification: Earning rewards, leveling up, and competing with friends can make working out feel like playing a game you don’t want to put down.
- Community and Coaching: Future apps will likely offer more ways to connect with coaches and communities, providing support and advice to keep you motivated.
As technology advances, fitness apps will become even more intuitive, making it easier for everyone to enjoy getting fit. The future is all about workouts that are fun, personalized, and part of your everyday life.
Wrapping Up
And there you have it, friends – our journey through the top 10 fitness apps for beginners. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to mix things up, there’s an app out there with your name on it. Remember, the best app is the one that gets you excited to move, eat well, and keep pushing forward.
- Find Your Fit: Each app has its own flair. Some will be your cheerleader, while others might feel like a wise coach. Try a few and see what clicks.
- Every Step Counts: These apps remind us that every little effort adds up. Whether it’s choosing stairs over the elevator or a salad over fries, small choices lead to big changes.
- Community is Key: You’re not alone on this journey. These apps connect you with people who share your goals. Lean on them, learn from them, and maybe even out-plank them.
Thanks for sticking with us through this fitness app adventure. Here’s to finding the perfect app that makes you feel unstoppable. Ready, set, go!
