Best app designed by women for women

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The pandemic transformed the way we approach exercise, and in some cases improved our consistency since we could do it without leaving home. For people who haven’t returned to the gym yet, it’s comforting to know a workout is within easy reach. 

There are hundreds of fitness apps available for both iPhone or Android. This can be overwhelming if you aren’t sure what’s best for your needs. Are you a total beginner, or a seasoned runner or yogi? Depending on what you’re looking for, different apps will work best for you. 

We’ve tested and researched many of the popular available apps to determine which ones are the most useful. Some key things we took into account were:

• How easy the app is to use
• Unique features you may not get anywhere else
• The versatility of the app
• Fair price

As a former trainer and a fitness junkie who’s tried various apps throughout the years, I’m aware that not every workout on fitness apps is one-size-fits-all, and it’s important to be user-inclusive.

Conveniently, many of these apps offer free trials first. That way you can give them a fair shake and decide if you plan on committing. Use our list of the best fitness apps as a guide both at home and/or in the gym.

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When I first started working out regularly, Nike Training Club was my go-to app. It provides various workout programs such as bodyweight exercises, high-intensity interval training, cross-training, yoga, core exercises and expert health tips by Nike trainers to keep you on track. 

The workouts are easy to follow because there are video demonstrations of each exercise with the allotted time you should be doing them. This keeps you from losing track during your workout and mentally prepares you for the following exercise. The app also connects to your Apple watch to provide health metrics such as your heart rate and logs your activities. 

The best part of this app is that it’s free and gives you access to many resources no matter if you’re a beginner or more advanced. 

Pros 

• Variety of classes to pick from
• Nike is a trusted and familiar brand
• Can be used at the gym or at home

Cons

• Lacks personalization
• If you don’t own an Apple watch you can’t keep track of fitness data
• Programming lacks structure which doesn’t help if you have strength goals in mind

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The Future app is unique because it connects you to an elite personal fitness coach who checks in regularly, gives you feedback and customizes the workout for you. They take into account your fitness level, goals and even what equipment is available to you. The creators of the app 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.

To get started on this app, you have to take a short quiz about the type of workouts you like or dislike, what type of coach you work best with, and your goals. There are plenty of coaches on this app with numerous years of experience in their respective fields. 

To get the most out of the experience, users are recommended to wear an Apple Watch or a compatible Android wearable, which gives detailed information to your coach so they can see your progress and edit your plan as you go. At $149 a month, Future isn’t the most affordable app on the market, but compared to a standard personal training session, which can cost more than that, it’s worth the price. And with Future’s current promo, you can get the first month for only $19.

Pros

• Personal trainer at your fingertips
• It’s customized to help reach your goals
• Regular check-ins with trainer without leaving home
• Ideal for both iPhone and Android users

Cons

• Pricey compared to other fitness apps