Finding the right workout app can be a challenge, especially when you’re looking for free options. Many apps claim to be free but often require payments for full access. To help you navigate this, we’ve tested numerous apps to find the best ones that truly offer valuable features at no cost. Here’s a list of the top 10 free workout apps that beginners can use to kickstart their fitness journey.
Key Takeaways
- These apps are genuinely free, with no hidden costs for basic features.
- They offer a variety of workouts suitable for all fitness levels.
- You can use them at home, making it easier to stay active without a gym membership.
- Most apps include instructional videos to help you perform exercises correctly.
- Tracking your progress is simple, helping you stay motivated.
1. Caliber
Caliber is a top choice for anyone starting their fitness journey. This app pairs you with a certified personal trainer who creates a workout plan just for you based on your goals. It offers a free version that is ad-free and includes access to over 500 exercises.
Key Features:
- Personalized Workouts: The app generates workouts based on your initial questionnaire, considering your equipment and fitness level.
- High-Quality Instruction: Each exercise comes with detailed instructions and demonstration videos, making it easy to follow along.
- Community Support: Join groups to connect with others who share your interests, like running or cycling.
Pricing Tiers:
Membership Type | Price | Features |
---|---|---|
Free | Free forever | Access to exercise library |
Pro | $19/month | Group coaching |
Premium | Starting at $200/month | One-on-one coaching |
Caliber is designed to help you improve your strength and body composition, making it a great starting point for beginners.
Overall, Caliber stands out for its excellent instruction and supportive community, making it a fantastic option for those new to fitness.
2. Nike Training Club
Nike Training Club (NTC) is a completely free app that offers a wide range of workouts for beginners. It provides various options, from strength training to yoga, making it suitable for anyone looking to start their fitness journey.
Key Features:
- Massive library of on-demand workouts
- More than 10 workout categories available
- Easy to navigate interface for users
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Free to use with no hidden costs
- Workouts led by certified trainers
- Offers both bodyweight and equipment-based workouts
Cons:
- Lacks personalized programming
- Some users report glitches during workouts
“You just don’t see this kind of value in a free workout app.” — Team Product Tester
Overall, NTC is a great choice for beginners who want to get fit without spending money. It allows users to filter workouts based on their goals and available equipment, making it easy to find the right fit. Whether you want to build strength or improve flexibility, Nike Training Club has something for everyone.
3. FitOn
FitOn is a fantastic app for beginners looking to start their fitness journey. It offers a wide range of workouts and is completely free to use.
Key Features
- User-Friendly Interface: FitOn is designed to be easy to navigate, making it perfect for those new to fitness apps.
- Variety of Workouts: Users can choose from cardio, yoga, strength training, and more.
- Guided Instruction: Each workout includes a trainer who demonstrates exercises and offers modifications.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Free access to all workouts | Some features require a paid version |
Comprehensive health and fitness app | Limited long-term workout plans |
Excellent instructional quality | No monthly subscription option |
“FitOn is a great way for beginners to explore different workouts without any cost. It helps you find what you enjoy!”
Conclusion
FitOn stands out as an excellent choice for those just starting out. With its free access to a variety of workouts and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s a great tool to help you get moving.
4. Aaptiv
Aaptiv is an audio-guided workout app that offers a fantastic starting point for beginners. With over 9,500 workouts available, you can explore various training styles, including running, strength training, yoga, and more. Here are some key features:
- Audio-based classes: Workouts are led by certified trainers, providing clear instructions without needing to look at a screen.
- New workouts weekly: Fresh content keeps your routine exciting and engaging.
- Goal-based programs: Tailor your workouts to meet your personal fitness goals.
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Thousands of workouts | Fewer coaches than competitors |
Excellent audio instructions | No nutritional support |
Free trial for annual plan | Must sign up for annual plan to access the free trial |
Aaptiv is a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly workout app that doesn’t require any extra equipment.
While Aaptiv is a solid option for beginners, it may not be suitable for everyone as you progress. The app offers basic progression plans, typically lasting four to six weeks, which might not be enough for significant results. However, it’s perfect for those just starting their fitness journey!
5. Jefit
Jefit is a great choice for anyone looking to track their workouts effectively. This app is especially popular among gym-goers who want to log their strength training sessions. With over 1,400 exercises available, users can find a variety of workouts tailored to their needs.
Key Features
- Workout Tracking: Easily log your workouts and monitor your progress.
- Exercise Library: Access a huge library of exercises categorized by muscle groups.
- Workout Plans: Use professionally designed workout plans to guide your training.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Extensive free version | Free version has many ads |
Workouts designed by professionals | Limited cardio options |
Syncs with Apple Watch |
Jefit is a free workout tracking platform that helps you stay accountable and motivated. It’s perfect for those who want to improve their fitness without spending a lot.
In summary, Jefit is an excellent app for beginners who want to get serious about their fitness journey. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, it can be a valuable tool in your workout routine. Many users have found it to be a catalyst for getting in shape.
6. Sweat
The Sweat app is designed specifically for women, offering a variety of workouts and nutritional guidance. Although it is free for a seven-day trial, users can explore its features before deciding on a subscription. Here’s what makes Sweat stand out:
- Wide Range of Workouts: From high-intensity training to yoga, there’s something for everyone.
- Customizable Plans: Users can input their fitness goals to receive a personalized training plan.
- Community Support: The app fosters a supportive environment, making it easier to stay motivated.
Key Features
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Programs | 50+ different workout programs |
Nutrition Guidance | Meal planning assistance |
User Ratings | 4.1 / 5 overall score |
The app is great for women looking to build a habit of being active. It offers easy-to-follow workouts and explanations of each move, making it accessible for beginners.
User Experience
Many users have praised the app for its user-friendly interface and the variety of programs available. One reviewer noted that the app helped her get back into working out after a long break. The community aspect is also a highlight, as it connects women who support each other in their fitness journeys.
In summary, Sweat is a fantastic option for women looking to start their fitness journey with a supportive community and a variety of workout options. The ability to exercise without equipment is a significant advantage, especially for those who may not have access to a gym.
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7. Strava
Strava is a popular fitness app that helps you track your workouts like running, cycling, and hiking. It supports over 30 different sports, making it a great choice for anyone who loves to stay active. The app uses GPS to map your routes and analyze your performance, which can be really helpful for setting goals and improving your skills.
Key Features:
- Community Engagement: You can follow friends and join challenges, making workouts more fun and motivating.
- Data Tracking: Strava provides detailed stats on your performance, including pace, distance, and elevation.
- Integration: It works well with many fitness trackers like Garmin and Fitbit, allowing for seamless data syncing.
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Tracks a variety of sports | Some features require a paid subscription |
Strong community aspect | Limited privacy options |
Accurate GPS tracking | Some features only available on desktop |
Strava is not just about tracking; it’s about connecting with others and sharing your fitness journey.
In summary, Strava is a fantastic app for anyone looking to enhance their fitness experience. Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, or just enjoy outdoor activities, this app can help you stay motivated and track your progress effectively. It’s great for tracking weekly mileage and connecting with a community of athletes.
8. SmartWOD
SmartWOD is a fantastic app for those who love CrossFit and high-intensity workouts. It offers a free timer that can be used for various training styles, including AMRAP (As Many Rounds As Possible), EMOM (Every Minute On the Minute), and Tabata workouts. This makes it a versatile tool for anyone looking to enhance their fitness routine.
Key Features
- Customizable Workouts: You can select workouts based on the equipment you have available.
- User-Friendly: Setting up the app is simple; just choose your equipment and hit the spinner to find a workout you like.
- Video Demonstrations: Each exercise comes with a demo video to help you understand the movements better.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Wide variety of workouts available | Limited interactive features |
Easy to customize based on equipment | Some users report issues with ads |
Great for tracking progress | Filtering options could be improved |
SmartWOD is perfect for anyone looking to switch up their workouts and keep things fresh. It’s a great way to stay motivated and engaged in your fitness journey!
9. Centr
Centr, created by Chris Hemsworth, is a fantastic app for beginners looking to improve their fitness. It offers a variety of workouts and meal plans that are easy to follow. The content is evidence-based, ensuring you get the best guidance possible.
Key Features
- Variety of Workouts: Centr provides different types of workouts, including strength training, yoga, and HIIT.
- Meal Plans: The app includes meal plans that are simple to prepare, making healthy eating easier.
- User-Friendly Interface: The app is designed to be sleek and easy to navigate, which is great for beginners.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Comprehensive workout options | Some users report issues with cancellation policies |
Evidence-based content | Limited options in rural areas |
Easy-to-use interface |
Centr is a great choice for those who want a well-rounded fitness experience. It combines workouts and nutrition in a way that is accessible for everyone.
10. Map My Fitness
Map My Fitness is a popular app that helps you track your workouts and stay motivated. This app has what you need to stay on track and reach your fitness goals. It offers a variety of features that make it easy to plan and monitor your exercise routines.
Key Features
- GPS Integration: Track your routes and distances accurately.
- Community Support: Connect with other users for motivation.
- Custom Workouts: Choose from over 600 activities, including running, cycling, and yoga.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Affordable MVP version | Some features require a subscription |
Integrates with most fitness trackers | Limited community interaction in free version |
Easy to use and set up | Accuracy can vary with GPS |
Map My Fitness is a well-established tool that offers a wide range of workouts. Whether you’re at the gym or running outside, this app has you covered. It’s especially great for runners looking for a streamlined experience.
In summary, Map My Fitness is a solid choice for anyone starting their fitness journey. With its user-friendly interface and helpful features, it can help you stay accountable and motivated as you work towards your goals.
Final Thoughts on Free Workout Apps for Beginners
In conclusion, finding the right workout app can make a big difference in your fitness journey. The apps we discussed are not only free but also provide great support for beginners. They offer various workouts, easy-to-follow instructions, and tools to track your progress. Whether you want to build strength, improve flexibility, or just stay active, there’s an app here for you. Remember, the key is to choose one that fits your style and keeps you motivated. So, download one of these apps and start your fitness adventure today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any truly free workout apps?
Yes, there are workout apps that are completely free to use, like Nike Training Club and FitOn.
What is the best free online workout program?
Many consider Caliber to be the best free workout program since it offers a large library of exercises and helpful tools.
What features does FitOn offer for free?
FitOn has a free version that gives you access to many workouts. The paid version offers extras like meal plans and offline downloads.
Do free workout apps have hidden fees?
Some free apps might have extra features that you can unlock with a paid subscription, which can be confusing for users.
Can I use these apps at home?
Absolutely! These apps are great for working out at home, so you can exercise in your own space.
Do I need special equipment for these apps?
It depends on the app. Some require basic equipment, while others offer workouts that need no equipment at all.
Will I find workouts for beginners in these apps?
Yes, most of these apps include beginner-friendly workouts to help you get started.
How do I choose the right app for me?
Think about your fitness goals, the types of workouts you enjoy, and whether you prefer guided sessions or more flexibility.
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