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I’m a Personal Trainer, and These Are the Workout Apps I Actually Use

Young Woman Using Fitness App for Morning Yoga Routine Indoors
10 Workout Apps I Recommend as a Personal Trainer FreshSplash - Getty Images

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I rely on workout apps more than you might expect from a personal trainer. Even I don't want to spend time planning every workout, and the right app makes it easy to press play and get moving—whether you're at home, at the gym, or traveling.

The tricky part is that the transparent number of workout apps can be overwhelming, and it can be hard to know which one is actually right for you. Finding an app that fits your fitness level, goals, and lifestyle is key—otherwise, it's just taking up space on your phone.

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That's why the exercise professionals in the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition & Fitness Lab tested more than 40 workout apps, evaluating everything from workout quality and variety to ease of use. We also tapped real-life testers to see which apps kept them engaged and motivated. Ahead, I'm sharing the workout apps I'd recommend for every fitness level and goal.

Our top picks:

1) Peloton App Peloton App

BEST FOR:People who want high-quality, instructor-led workouts and have (or plan to invest in) Peloton equipment.

HOW IT WORKS:This multifaceted workout platform offers a massive selection of high-quality classes, over 16 types, including spin, running, yoga, barre, HIIT, strength training, stretching, and prenatal, with new content added regularly. It includes two membership tiers on iOS and Android : App One includes all fitness classes that do not require a machine, such as bodyweight workouts and routines with small equipment like dumbbells or resistance bands. App+ is designed for Peloton equipmentowners, including Bike+ and Tread, providing access to additional metrics and insights.

Peloton also offers Strength+ , a strength-focused app for home or gym equipment. It delivers programs tailored to the equipment you have, from barbells and kettlebells to cable machines and medicine balls. Strength+ costs $10 per month, but it is free for anyone with an existing App+ or All-Access membership.

WHY WE LIKE IT:Peloton has been around for over a decade, and I've been using it since 2018, starting with the original Bike and app membership. It's the one app I keep coming back to, and it remains a favorite among our testers. It is best-in-class in terms of functionality. It is easy to navigate and offers extensive class filters, so you can quickly find exactly what you are looking for, from workout type and length to your preferred instructor. "I love the app because it is easy to navigate and filter through the workouts to get exactly what you are looking for—from the type of running workout, the length of time, and even the instructor you prefer," a tester said.

The classes are well executed, and testers appreciated the feeling of being right in the studio.The app also features a thriving community with hashtag groups, virtual high fives, forums, and live DJ classes.

The biggest standout, however, is Peloton's instructors. From the inspiring Robin Arzón to the hilarious Cody Rigsby and feel-good Alex Toussaint, there is an instructor to fit nearly every workout vibe. "My favorite part is the individual instructors guiding you through with uplifting motivation, conversation, and the best music every step of the way," one tester said, highlighting why Peloton continues to be a favorite among users.

TAKE NOTE:The app is excellent by itself, but to take advantage of its full library, it is ideal when paired with equipment.The platform was built around the Bike+, Tread, and other machines, so without them, you miss out on key metrics and features that elevate the Peloton experience. That said, the basic app is reasonably priced, making it worthwhile if you connect with an instructor whose style really motivates you.

Pros
  • Top industry instructors
  • Huge workout community and class library
  • User-friendly interface
  • Strength+ app option for gym-goers
Cons
  • You won't be able to take advantage of certain metrics if you don't have Peloton equipment

2) Apple Fitness+ Apple Fitness+

BEST FOR:iOS users looking for high-quality, accessible workouts with expert instructors and a wide variety of classes.

HOW IT WORKS:Apple launched Fitness+in late 2020 to bring guided workouts to iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV users via iOS . The app offers over 12 workout types, including HIIT, strength, yoga, core, and more.Classes can be filtered by trainer, duration, music, and focus area. "There's a pretty wide variety of fitness categories, and you can narrow it down even more within those categories. For example, the strength category can be narrowed down to lower body focus, upper body, or total body," one tester noted. Production quality is top-notch, with multiple camera angles and clear visuals.

WHY WE LIKE IT:What I love most is that every class includes two to four trainers showing modifications for different levels, which also creates a team-like atmosphere. There are plenty of options, whether you want easier or more challenging variations, and the instructors are inspiring and uplifting, including Gregg Cook, yoga instructor Jonelle Lewis, HIIT aficionado Kim Ngo, and marathon runner Emily Fayette.

Every workout and meditation incorporates American Sign Language, with trainers learning ASL together in weekly classes led by a Deaf-certified instructor, so those who are deaf or hard of hearing feel included. The app also offers collections for guided programs, the Artist Spotlight series with full playlists from artists like Miley Cyrus, Bad Bunny, and Keith Urban, and walking sessions with celebrities called Time to Walk, which I really enjoyed for the stories from Rita Ora, Goldie Hawn, Robin Roberts, Jason Segel, and Nick Jonas. The monthly price is incredibly reasonable for all the content it delivers.

TAKE NOTE:You no longer need an Apple Watch to use the app, but it enhances the experience with metrics like heart rate and recovery. "I loved that this service tracked and displayed your pulse throughout the whole workout and gave you feedback about how your rate recovered after the workout," a tester said. And note that while the production quality of the workout videos is impressive, there are no live classes.

Pros
  • Large class library and 12 different workout modalities
  • Multiple trainers in each class to provide modifications
  • 4K Ultra HD workout videos
  • Trainers incorporate sign language in each class
Cons
  • Not available on Android devices

3) Alo Wellness Club Alo Wellness Club

BEST FOR:Anyone looking for boutique-style barre, Pilates, yoga, and wellness content at home.

HOW IT WORKS:Known for its trendy yoga and loungewear , Alo also offers a fitness and wellness platform packed with high-quality exercise content filmed in stunning locations. Catered toward wellness and women's fitness, the app features barre, Pilates, yoga, HIIT, meditation, quick ab workouts, and more, with over 3,000 classes on iOS .You can download workouts to your phone to practice yoga outside, even without a Wi-Fi connection.

WHY WE LIKE IT:After testing the app for our Good Housekeeping Fitness Awards years ago, I was immediately hooked on the engaging and challenging barre and Pilates workouts. The app supported me through two pregnancies with prenatal and postnatal barre content tailored to each trimester and kept me strong. I now turn to it at least twice weekly for effective sessions that feel like boutique studio routines."I found that classes ran on the more challenging side relative to their classification. I also appreciated the workouts targeted to mastering harder poses," one tester said.

Testers also loved the energizing, motivating workouts for all levels, as well as the wellness series focused on sleep, nutrition, and self-care. Many classes are filmed in stunning locations and led by instructors like Emily Sferra, Anabella Landa, and Bianca Wise, who keep sessions interesting and never boring. "The instructor, Bianca, was beautiful, the setting amazing, music perfect. I'm absolutely hooked on her workouts," a tester commented.

Some workouts require equipment like a Pilates ball, resistance bands, or hand weights, but bodyweight-only options are easy to find. The app, previously $20/month, is now completely free.But they keep rolling out new curated content, like their BALANCED series that explores the connection between hormones, movement, nutrition, and mental wellness.

TAKE NOTE:The classes are less music-focused than other platforms, though a newer music station feature adds energy and can be toggled off. The app is available on Apple devices, and Android users can access workouts via the Alo Wellness Club website .There are no live classes, and navigation can be tricky at times, though recent search filter updates make it easier to find specific workouts.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Alo Wellness Club

Pros
  • Fantastic class content and instructors
  • Popular for yoga, barre, and Pilates
  • Great for challenging and effective workouts with a wellness focus
  • App recently became completely free
Cons
  • Not available on Android devices

4) Sweat Sweat

BEST FOR:Women looking for expert-led fitness plans they can stick with.

HOW IT WORKS:Australian personal trainer Kayla Itsines has built a massive social media following thanks to her effective at-home workouts, including her iconic 28-minute training program. She launched the Sweat with Kayla app in 2015 and, in 2017, expanded the platform by bringing on fellow trainers Kelsey Wells and Ruba Ali. Available on iOS and Android , the app now features more than 50 workout programs and over 13,000 workouts created specifically for women by women. Sweat is available in over 145 countries and eight languages and is widely loved for its empowering approach to women's fitness.

WHY WE LIKE IT:If you thrive with structured programming to stay consistent, this app delivers. A female fitness expert leads each class, and testers appreciated the wide variety of workouts suitable for everyone, from experienced athletes to new moms. Programs range from two weeks to more than 24 weeks and include HIIT, strength training, Pilates, low-impact workouts, yoga, barre, pregnancy, post-pregnancy, and more.

"I loved the PWR Post-Pregnancy Program from Kelsey Wells; it challenged me and gave me something to stick to after having the baby," one new mom said. Kayla Itsines' High-Intensity Zero Equipment workouts are another standout, especially for beginners looking to kick-start a fitness transformation. The community is large and supportive, the content is effective and easy to follow, and testers found both the app and instructors highly motivating.We also like that you can preview workouts before starting, and most exercises are simple to follow along with.

TAKE NOTE:All of these features come at a moderate-to-higher price point compared to other workout apps. There are no live or fully guided workouts, so you'll need to interact with the screen after each set.Still, the thoughtful programming and user-friendly design make it well worth it.

Pros
  • All-female instructors
  • Workouts designed for women at all phases of life
  • Fantastic community
  • Massive workout class library
Cons
  • No guided or live workouts available

5) Centr Centr

BEST FOR:Anyone serious about strength, conditioning, and overall wellness.

HOW IT WORKS:Created by Chris Hemsworth and his hand-selected team of health experts (including Luke Zocchi, the trainer behind Hemsworth's Thor transformation), this comprehensive fitness and wellness app goes far beyond workouts. Centr delivers effective training across strength, boxing, MMA, HIIT, dynamic yoga, and Pilates, while also offering nutrition guidance, chef-curated meal plans and recipes, and expert sleep and recovery advice.The platform is accessible via iOS , Android , or desktop, making it easy to integrate into your daily routine.

WHY WE LIKE IT:This app stands out for anyone aiming to make a true lifestyle change. "I liked the approach with this app and having a section for workouts, meditation, and food recipes," one tester said. We also appreciate the structured, goal-driven programs (like the 13-week Centr Power muscle-building plan) that help build strength and motivation.Centr also sells its own fitness equipment to help you create a complete home gym; I've tested several items, including the Centr treadmill , and found the quality impressive for the price.

"I find it hard to come up with routines myself, so having coached sessions made it easy and comfortable for me to try new things like boxing that I wouldn't have sought out on my own," another tester noted. Gym-goers will also appreciate the self-guided option, which lets you move through exercises at your own pace.

TAKE NOTE:At $30 per month, Centr is pricier than many workout apps, though it's one of the most comprehensive platforms we tested. An annual subscription brings the cost down to about $11.67 per month. Workouts range from five to 60 minutes and span beginner to advanced levels, though many testers found the programming challenging overall.

While there are plenty of bodyweight workouts, many sessions incorporate equipment like dumbbells, resistance bands, and benches.If your goal is to build strength or muscle, you'll likely need access to additional equipment such as a barbell, dumbbells, and an incline bench.

Pros
  • Excellent strength training workout selection
  • Effective fitness and nutrition programs
  • Easy user interface
  • Very comprehensive platform that includes nutrition guidance
Cons
  • Not ideal for beginners

6) Future Future

BEST FOR:Anyone who wants highly personalized coaching without in-person training.

HOW IT WORKS:Future was cofounded by Justin Santamaria, the engineer behind FaceTime and iMessage, and brings a tech-forward approach to virtual personal training. After signing up, you're matched with a real human trainer based on your goals, fitness level, and preferences. You'll then train virtually for an entire month via iOS and Android for roughly the cost of a single high-end, in-person personal training session.Users can also filter trainers by personality, specialty (such as bodybuilding or running), or sport to find the best fit.

WHY WE LIKE IT:Most fitness apps fall short on personalization, but Future delivers the best of both worlds: truly customized personal training with the convenience of working out on your own schedule. The program feels tailored to your specific goals, with a strong emphasis on progress tracking so you can see measurable improvements over time. The experience is highly data-driven, with trainers designing balanced routines that incorporate fitness, recovery, mindfulness, and in-depth analytics to keep you motivated and accountable.

"I love how personalized it is! I've had multiple calls with my trainer and chat with her every day. We've gotten to know each other, and I really love the human component of the app. She also designs great workouts for when I'm traveling and beyond," one tester shared. Another staffer said it's the first platform that's helped her exercise consistently in years, thanks to a knowledgeable, encouraging trainer.

TAKE NOTE:While you'll have an initial live call with your trainer, you won't see them during every workout. Instead, you'll communicate through the app's messaging platform to share feedback, ask questions, or request program adjustments. This setup lets you train on your own time while still benefiting from consistent accountability.

Pros
  • Personal training in the comfort of your own home
  • Customized workout programs
  • Demos of each movement
  • Workouts can be completed on your own time
Cons
  • You won't see your trainer during every session

7) Nike Training Club Nike Training Club

BEST FOR:General fitness fans who want a free, versatile app.

HOW IT WORKS:The Nike Training Club (NTC) app was one of the first workout apps I tried back in college to stay consistent with exercise. The main draw for me was that it was (and still is) free on both iOS and Android . NTC offers hundreds of workouts for all fitness levels, with an intuitive interface that lets you browse routines by workout type, muscle group, equipment, and more.

You'll also find nutrition and wellness tips to complement your training. Workouts include follow-along classes led by trainers like HIIT expert Kirsty Godso and strength coach Joe Holder, "whiteboard" workouts where you move through drills at your own pace, multi-week programs, and a library of guidance on movements, nutrition, recovery, and mindfulness.

WHY WE LIKE IT:Classes are efficient, easy to follow, and ideal for small spaces, making NTC a great option for apartment-friendly fitness. Despite being free, the app offers premium-feeling features, including syncing workouts and heart-rate data with Apple Health and access to your Apple Music library during workouts.

Testers loved the variety of classes and noted that programs catered to all levels, from novices to advanced athletes. "There were different programs for different ability levels, which is great for everyone!" one tester shared. NTC's companion app, Nike Run Club , also performed well in our tests and is curated specifically for running (also free).

TAKE NOTE: NTC's library, while solid, is smaller than some competitors' libraries, which offer thousands of workouts, so advanced athletes might crave more variety. Most sessions are bodyweight or minimal-equipment, which is great for small spaces but less ideal for heavy strength training.

RELATED: The Best Free YouTube Workout Channels

Pros
  • Caters to all fitness levels
  • Nice variety of workout types
  • Free platform
  • Connects with Apple Music
Cons
  • Limited workout library compared to other platforms

8) Ladder Ladder App

BEST FOR:Strength-training enthusiasts seeking structured, expert-led programs.

HOW IT WORKS:Founded in 2020, Ladder is designed for serious strength training. The app offers a variety of modalities on iOS , including yoga strength, Pilates strength, push-pull training, HIIT, bodybuilding, kettlebells, explosive power classes, and more.Ladder even includes a 12-week prenatal program for safe, effective strength training during pregnancy. Workouts are flexible, and you can pause, skip, or rewind exercises as needed, making it easy to fit training into any schedule.

WHY WE LIKE IT:Ladder's roster of expert trainers is top-notch, including popular coach Elise Young . Whether at home or in the gym,the app delivers structured, progressive-overload programs that increase the weight, reps, duration, or intensity of the exercise so you gradually build muscle mass and strength. You can select programs based on goals, preferences, and available time, with each day mapped out and updated weekly.

While the platform is ideal for advanced athletes, beginners also benefit by learning foundational movements and mastering strength basics."I cannot say enough good things about this app," a staffer said. "You pick a coach based on your goals and preferences, and each day's workout—including rest—is programmed for you. My coach focuses on kettlebell strength training. My sessions are about 45 minutes, and at 45, I feel and look stronger than ever."

TAKE NOTE: The app is currently iOS-only, and the $30/month price point is on the higher side.That said, you gain access to quality trainers, structured programming, and integrations with Apple Watch, Spotify, and Apple Music for a seamless experience.

Pros
  • Excellent roster of experienced trainers
  • Effective strength training programs
  • Tracks your progress
  • Connects with Spotify and Apple Music
Cons
  • Not available on Android devices

9) Shred Shred

BEST FOR:Fitness enthusiasts who alternate between home and gym training.

HOW IT WORKS:Founded in 2018, Shred has gained popularity for its challenging strength-training circuits and AI-assisted workouts, available on iOS and Android .The app begins with a quiz to understand your goals, schedule, and available equipment. The free version offers a solid selection of workouts, while the Unlimited plan unlocks all 18 training styles, including gym, bodyweight, and cardio, and allows AI to personalize your program with weight recommendations, circuit alternates, and tailored progressions.

WHY WE LIKE IT:Shred stands out for its flexibility: workouts are tailored for home or gym, and most exercises include alternatives if you want to swap moves. Gym sessions are offered in 30- to 35-, 50- to 60-, and 65- to 75-minute blocks, while bodyweight and cardio workouts come in 20, 40, and 60-minute intervals.

"I like hypertrophy training by body part, so I have Shred suggest daily workouts—upper body, lower body, full body, or abs," says personal trainer Amy Schlinger, NASM-CPT . "If I did upper body yesterday, I can choose a 'custom' workout and pick a different body part, and it creates a new session. Each exercise shows full instructions and videos."

Shred also offers full-length studio classes in yoga, boxing, HIIT, and more. "I like the cardio section too," Schlinger adds. "It creates running workouts with interval variations based on the time I want to exercise—great for mixing up my routine."

TAKE NOTE:This app isn't designed for quick five- to 10-minute sessions; it's best for users committed to a serious training schedule.At $20/month, it sits at a moderate price point, but the AI personalization and variety of workouts make it worth the investment, though it can be a bit glitchy at times.

Pros
  • Workouts created by trainers
  • AI tailors the routines to your goals and available equipment
  • Programs available for home or gym workouts
  • Cardio training also available
Cons
  • App can be a bit glitchy

10) Strava Strava

BEST FOR:Runners, cyclists, and hikers who want detailed tracking and a connected community.

HOW IT WORKS:Not into yoga and barre? Strava is built for runners, cyclists, and hikers. Unlike follow-along fitness apps, Strava is an advanced activity tracker that records key stats such as speed, pace, elevation, and more, helping you improve your performance over time.The app syncs with iOS and Android devices, GPS watches, head units, heart rate monitors, and power meters, giving you detailed data for every run, ride, or hike.

WHY WE LIKE IT:Strava's standout feature is its community. Every activity you record appears in your feed, where friends and followers can give kudos, leave comments, and share their workouts. "Very easy to use and created community with my fellow runners, both those in my run camp and outside," one tester said. Monthly challenges and competitions add extra motivation.

You can follow your own route or explore Strava's massive network of roads and trails, built by millions of athletes worldwide."The mapping tool makes it easier than ever to plan runs and workouts in advance, especially when following a training plan with specific distances and paces," one runner noted.

TAKE NOTE:A subscription unlocks advanced performance analysis, the ability to compete with your past activities and friends, and safety featuresthat share your location with designated contacts while running or cycling. "I like Strava Premium because I can get a deeper analysis of my run—pace for specific segments, pace for similar runs, and customized routes," a tester shared.

Pros
  • Easy way to track your stats
  • Great for finding new routes
  • Supportive community
  • Syncs to most phones and GPS watches
Cons
  • Does not offer follow-along fitness classes

11) Other workout apps we recommend

Photo credit: Good Housekeeping / Amanda Constantine
Photo credit: Good Housekeeping / Amanda Constantine

While the workout apps listed above performed best in our tests, there are several other options worth considering:

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  • BetterMe :A beginner-friendly health and wellness app, BetterMe delivers easy-to-follow workouts and a variety of routines. While the AI-generated videos and characters may feel less personal, the app is intuitive and accessible for all fitness levels. Available on iOS and Android .

  • BODi :Formerly Beachbody, BODi offers popular programs like P90X, Insanity, and 21-Day Fix. We loved its extensive library of efficient, varied workouts that fit easily into a busy schedule. Available on iOS and Android .

  • Body by Blogilates :Led by fitness influencer Cassey Ho, Body by Blogilates brings her fun, effective Pilates workouts to an easy-to-navigate app. The library includes classes targeting specific body parts and fitness goals, building on the popularity of her YouTube channel , which has over 11 million subscribers. Available on iOS and Android .

  • Glo :Perfect for beginners and seasoned yogis alike, Glo offers more than 8,000 classes across yoga, meditation, and Pilates. After taking a short quiz, the app recommends personalized workouts and lets you follow your favorite instructors. Available on iOS and Android .

  • Jazzercise On Demand :Jazzercise has been reimagined digitally by Skyla Nelson, granddaughter of founder Judi Sheppard Missett. The app brings classic dance-based fitness to a modern platform, offering both nostalgia and fresh content. Available on iOS and Android .

  • KA Daily App :Fitness personality Katie Austin, daughter of Denise Austin, launched her app in 2018. It now features more than 425 on-demand workouts, hundreds of healthy recipes, and a supportive community. We particularly enjoyed the Women's Health Strength Transformation Series . Available on iOS and Android .

  • MWH :Created by Melissa Wood-Tepperberg, MWH offers hundreds of workouts in styles like Pilates, yoga, barre, and meditation. The app is a solid choice for those looking to combine fitness with wellness practices. Available on iOS and Android .

  • Obé :Recognizable for its vibrant, neon-colored videos and upbeat instructors, Obé features over 20 types of workouts, including HIIT, barre, sculpting, and cardio boxing. Stream live classes six days a week or choose from more than 16,000 on-demand sessions. Available on iOS and Android .

  • Pvolve :Endorsed by Jennifer Aniston, the Pvolve method focuses on low-impact exercises using specialized equipment to sculpt and strengthen the body. We found the workouts effective and enjoyable, with classes especially tailored for women's health. Available on iOS and Android .

  • Tone It Up :Created by trainers Katrina Scott and Karena Dawn, Tone It Up offers a wide range of classes, from toning and sculpting to pregnancy and postnatal workouts. You'll also find dance, kickboxing, barre, and strength training programs suitable for all levels and intensities. Available on iOS and Android .

12) How we test workout apps

Photo credit: Jillian Sollazzo
Photo credit: Jillian Sollazzo

The experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition & Fitness Lab have evaluated more than 40 workout apps through hands-on testing, alongside feedback from GH staffers and consumer testers. Using those insights, we assessed how each app performs in real-world use and identified the platforms that offer the best overall experience.

When selecting our top picks, we looked for apps that provide a broad range of workouts, including strength training, cardio, yoga and Pilates, to suit different fitness levels and goals. We also evaluated workout quality, instructor guidance, ease of following programs, and the overall user experience, including how simple it is to navigate the app, find classes and track progress.

We also considered practical features that can affect long-term value, such as subscription cost, offline access and how often new workouts or programs are added. By combining expert evaluations with feedback from GH staffers and consumer testers, we selected workout apps that stand out for quality, usability and overall value.

13) How to choose the right workout app for you

Photo credit: Good Housekeeping / Tina Martinez
Photo credit: Good Housekeeping / Tina Martinez

"The best app options should offer a dedicated program based on your goals, which the app should ask about when you first sign up," Schlinger says. "They should also give you other program options if the initial recommendation doesn't feel like the right fit." When choosing the ideal workout app, consider the following factors:

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✔️ Personal fitness goals:Are you looking to tone and sculpt, build muscle, improve cardio endurance, or a combination of all three? Identify what you want to achieve and select an app that aligns with those goals. Take your interests into account as well, and look for apps that offer exercises you actually enjoy. Many platforms also include meal-planning tools and recipes to complement your workouts.

✔️ Cost:Most apps offer a free trial, giving you the chance to test the program before committing to a monthly or yearly subscription. While investing in your health is worthwhile, make sure the app fits comfortably within your budget. Generally, apps are more affordable than in-person gyms since you're not paying for facility upkeep or equipment.

✔️ Intensity:If you're new to fitness, check that the app provides entry-level options and modifications for different exercises. The best apps cater to all fitness levels and body types, with classes clearly labeled for beginners, intermediates, or advanced users.

✔️ Community:Exercising at home can sometimes feel isolating, but many apps now offer supportive virtual communities to help you stay motivated. Live classes can foster a team-like atmosphere, especially if you can coordinate workouts with friends or connect with other members during the session. Social media groups linked to the app are another way to share progress, encouragement, and tips.

14) Do workout apps really work?

Photo credit: Hearst Owned

Yes, but consistency matters. "Workout apps definitely do work — the question is whether or not you stay committed to them,"Schlinger says. The right app can provide structured workouts, expert instruction, progress tracking, and motivation, but you still have to use it regularly to see results.

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Workout apps can also make exercise more convenient and affordable, especially if you prefer working out at home or don't want to plan your own routines. Look for an app with workouts you enjoy and programming that matches your goals, fitness level, and schedule.

15) What are the pros and cons of workout apps?

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Workout apps can make exercising more convenient, affordable, and accessible. Many offer hundreds or even thousands of workouts across different fitness styles, so you can find options that match your goals, schedule and fitness level. They also take the guesswork out of planning a routine and often include tools to track progress and keep you motivated.

The biggest drawback is the lack of personalized, real-time feedback. "You don't have anyone to check your form," Schlinger explains, which can be especially important if you're learning new exercises or aren't sure how much weight to use. Some people may also miss the accountability and camaraderie of working with a trainer or exercising in a group.And while many apps let you customize workouts by type, intensity, or duration, they may not provide the same level of personalization as one-on-one training.

16) Can a workout app replace a personal trainer?

Photo credit: Hearst Owned

Not completely. Workout apps can provide demonstrations, structured programs, and cues to help you exercise effectively. Still, most can't offer the real-time feedback and individualized attention you'd get from an in-person personal trainer.

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If you're new to exercise, look for beginner-friendly workouts with clear demonstrations and modifications, and make sure your doctor clears any new exercise routine.Some platforms, such as Future, bridge the gap by pairing app-based workouts with virtual personal training for more customized guidance.

17) Do I need equipment to use workout apps?

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Not necessarily. Many workout apps offer bodyweight routines that require no equipment, while others incorporate dumbbells, kettlebells, resistance bands, or gym machines.Apps such as Peloton can also connect with proprietary equipment to provide additional metrics and features.

Before subscribing, consider where you plan to exercise and what equipment you already have. If you're a beginner or primarily work out at home, an app with plenty of bodyweight and minimal-equipment options may be the easiest place to start.

18) Can I use workout apps offline?

Photo credit: Hearst Owned

It depends on the app. Some platforms allow you to download workouts in advance, while others require an internet connection.Live classes and virtual coaching sessions generally need a connection.

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If you travel frequently or exercise somewhere with unreliable service, look for an app with downloadable workouts so you can keep up with your routine wherever you are.

19) Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Photo credit: Philip Friedman
Photo credit: Philip Friedman

NASM-Certified Personal Trainer and Women's Fitness Specialist Stefani Sassos serves as the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition & Fitness Lab. With over a decade of experience, she uses her background in exercise science to test equipment, evaluate fitness trends, and create expert-backed content. As a busy mom, she regularly relies on fitness apps to fit in workouts, giving her firsthand insight into the value of convenient, effective exercise solutions.

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