Glo has one of the largest ranges of yoga sessions I’ve seen from a home workout app, helping users to make the most of their workouts. Along with daily live classes with an online instructor, there are pre-programmed classes to do when it suits you. Similarly, some apps offer richer and more varied route planning options than a watch can like the Footpath app. We tracked runs on the treadmill, as well as outside, as well as walks and bike rides on recovery days. We quickly learned that the more time you spend setting up the app, often the more accurate the data will be. Social fitness is all about motivating and helping your workout buddies to achieve more together.
From our personal experience with Whoop, we love how it fits on the wrist. It is one of the more comfortable fitness trackers we’ve worn—the strap has a soft back, is woven with microfilament yarn, and can also be easily adjusted. Workout apps can be especially appealing for beginners because they provide both convenience and guidance. Many offer beginner-friendly routines with clear, step-by-step instructions, making it easier to get started or ease back into exercise after a break. When starting, look for videos labeled specifically for beginners and make sure your doctor clears any new exercise routine.
Best for Beginners – Fitbod
Interested in Pilates as a go-to fitness discipline for your home workouts? Using AI to generate a customized workout program continues to grow in popularity, but the results can vary from generic, repetitive workouts to downright bad exercise advice. TR[Ai]NER by Element 26 is our pick for the best AI workout app because it offers detailed, immersive training programs that you can modify at any time based on your performance and post-session feedback. TR[Ai]NER by Element 26 is an AI workout app that delivers highly customizable training programs based on your goals, available equipment, and fitness preferences.
Best everyday smartwatch for iPhone users
- The segment leaderboards are arguably the most popular feature, allowing you to compare times with friends, followers, pros, and your previous efforts.
- Sondre Berg’s comprehensive calisthenics and handstand training app with over 1,200 exercises and skill-specific programs.
- You’ll find friends who are just as committed to their fitness journey as you are.
- Fitness apps can also be great for creating a studio-like training experience right in your own home.
- Yoga-Go is also a strong choice if you prefer low-impact movement, with sessions starting from just 7 minutes and no equipment required.
- There’s no option to work with a coach, nor is there a live in-app community.
Some of the apps we’ve tested are excellent for goal-setting, while others are optimized for community or learning. So even if you don’t have serious goals but just want to find a way to stay more fit and find some encouraging workout friends, there is an app for that. At almost £30 a month, it is one of the more expensive apps on my list, but it’s worth the spend if you prefer exercise classes over working out on your own, as this will be much cheaper per month.
We’ve been wearing and documenting fitness trackers as far back as 2015, when we reviewed the very first Apple Watch. We started cross comparing fitness trackers as early as 2017, when we broke down the best fitness trackers for activities like strength training, running, hiking, golf, and more. Now in 2026, we’re more dialed into the state of fitness trackers than ever before as nearly all our editors are wearing some sort of device on a daily basis. Centr offers multi-week training programs focused on conditioning, plyometrics, cardio, and core, with elements of strength and muscle-building.
An Old-School Live Service
The app’s holistic approach makes it a well-rounded tool for anyone looking to improve their physical fitness and overall well-being. Although it focuses more on guided classes than detailed stat tracking, the quality of content is unmatched for a free app. However, it’s worth noting that you can’t download videos for offline viewing. It plans out your meals for the week and has recipes that you can follow to create at home. This app has an extensive selection of workouts to choose from, and every Monday a new workout is uploaded.
How we test the best running apps
Alongside the routing features, there’s also a cycling advocacy tool within the app. Photomap lets you submit photos of infrastructure problems in your area or browse examples of good practice across the country, and is used by campaign groups. The app includes built-in announcements, and Siri is supported, so you don’t have to take your eyes off unimeal reviews the road to know how you’re doing.
Daily Burn: Workout Coach
The Peloton experience is a little lacking in the accountability department if you go with the basic membership, our tester noted. “If you want more of the at-home gym experience, I recommend the All-Access option,” they said, giving this category a 3 out of 5. As an All-Access member, you can encourage other users in your classes and follow the in-class leaderboard.
What is the best fitness app for beginners?
Studies have found that working out with others helps motivate you, stay consistent, and set better goals. Whether it’s a hilarious short story or a special offer, I’ll be including content that isn’t on my website. Also, consider the time of year and your upcoming schedule before you commit. I bought my annual Pro plan at the start of summer, not realizing I’d be traveling nonstop — so I barely used it for the first couple of months. Once the chaos died down, though, I got hooked and started using it almost daily. There are also YouTube Shorts, and many fitness creators are posting their shorter, simpler techniques on these less-than-60-second videos.
Best Workout App for Pilates: Reverse Health
We found FitOn to be the best app to keep you on track if you struggle to work out regularly. Overall, this is a sleek, all-in-one package with a unique (and modern) solar-powered option. If you don’t mind a bit of a sub-par charging experience, you can’t get more premium than the Garmin Fēnix 8.
Create a personalized workout plan
Popular stretching app with instructor-led classes and fun challenges to help you become more flexible. Whether you are just starting out, returning after a break, training for performance, or simply looking to move more consistently, there is something on this list for you. There are plenty of online yoga instructors to try if neither personality quite gels with you. If Adriene cooing that a pose is “yummy” makes you cringe, you can also give Jessamyn Stanley or Yoga with Tim a shot. For more tips, check out our story on Everything You Need for Your Yoga Practice.
Ladder Strength Training
With hundreds of workout apps promising fast results, personalised training plans and more upgrade options, it’s hard to know which ones are actually worth your time and your money. Some workout apps let you download videos for offline use, while others require a constant internet connection. Live classes or sessions with virtual coaching almost always need a working connection, so it’s important to check how each app handles offline access. If you’re traveling, heading to a location with limited service, or simply want to avoid interruptions, it’s a good idea to download a few favorite workouts in advance. That way, you’ll have options ready to go, whether you have internet access or not, keeping your routine consistent no matter where you are. Testers also loved the energizing, motivating workouts for all levels, as well as the wellness series focused on sleep, nutrition, and self-care.