Decided this is the time you’re finally going to get fitter? You’re not alone – and the right app on your phone can make all the difference between a resolution that fizzles out and one that actually sticks.
We’ve rounded up 10 of the best fitness app reviews, covering everything from running and cycling trackers to strength, yoga and calorie-counting apps. Real parents have tried these, so we’ve included their honest feedback alongside the basics on what each app does.
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#1. Nike+ Running App
Map your runs, track your progress, and get the motivation you need to keep going. The Nike+ Running app tracks distance, pace, time and calories burned using GPS, with audio feedback as you run.
Your runs automatically upload to your Nike account so you can review your route and elevation afterwards.
This app is available on both Android and iPhone.
Cost: Free
#2. RunKeeper App
RunKeeper describes itself as “the personal trainer in your pocket”.
Track your runs, walks, bike rides, hikes and more using your phone’s GPS, with everything syncing to the RunKeeper website.
This app is available on both Android and iPhone.
Cost: Free
Parents Ruth G and Susan B both agree: “RunKeeper is great.”
#3. Endomondo App
With Endomondo on your phone, you can track your running, cycling and other sports, challenge your friends, and analyse your training over time.
This app is available on both Android and iPhone.
Cost: Free
“The fitness app Endomondo is very good – 5/5. I have it on an Android phone. It’s free, or you can pay a small fee for an upgrade. It maps your run and lets you set goals. Good website for tracking, connected to the phone.” – Audrey E, Roscommon
#4. Couch-to-5k App
Get off the couch with the official Couch-to-5K training app. This programme has helped huge numbers of new runners move from the couch to the finish line.
Spend just 20 to 30 minutes, three times a week, for nine weeks, and you’ll be ready to complete your first 5K (3.1-mile) run. The app previously picked up an Appy Award for best Healthcare & Fitness App.
This app is available on both Android and iPhone.
Cost: Paid app – check the current price in the App Store or Google Play.
“I was doing Couch to 5K and found a running podcast excellent – great music, and it talks you through the whole thing so you’re not clock-watching. The time flies by without you realising.” – Judith M
“This app aims to have you jogging 5k within nine weeks with a gradual plan that increases your stamina each session. I’m nowhere near my ideal weight and was a walker, not a jogger, but the plan does exactly what it sets out to do. You can run your own playlist alongside it and simply follow the audio – jog when it tells you, walk when it tells you. The jogging gradually increases so by the end you’re not walking at all. It’s tough at times but it definitely works and is very rewarding.” – Mary T
Recommended reading: Mykidstime 21 Day Fitness Challenge
#5. MyFitnessPal App
Lose weight with MyFitnessPal, a fast and easy-to-use calorie counter with one of the largest food databases around and quick food and exercise logging.
This app is available on both Android and iPhone.
Cost: Free
“With MyFitnessPal I’ve lost 17lbs so far, 5/5. It’s easy to track and it’s a very positive, encouraging online community. I like how it saves what you already put in – just click and add. Very accurate as well.” – Crystal McG
#6. MapMyRun App
MapMyRun tracks your route, distance and pace in real time using GPS, syncing your results to the MapMyRun website.
This app is available on both Android and iPhone.
Cost: Free
“It’s good for short runs but uses too much power for long 10k runs – so my phone goes dead!” – Etain W, Galway
#7. Gym Ball Workouts App
This app has a collection of gym ball workouts drawing on Swiss ball, Pilates, yoga and more, with additional lessons available as you progress.
This app is available on iPhone.
Cost: Paid app – check the current price in the App Store.
#8. Nike Training Club App
Nike Training Club gives you a personal trainer in your pocket, with a large library of custom-built workouts designed to help you get lean, toned and strong, including sessions from professional trainers and athletes.
This app is available on both Android and iPhone.
Cost: Free
Recommended reading: 20 Easy Tips To Encourage Healthy Eating
#9. Pocket Yoga App
“Your personal yoga instructor, everywhere you go.” With Pocket Yoga you can keep up your practice at your own pace, at home. Simply set your device in front of your mat, start a session, and Pocket Yoga guides you through it.
Choose between three practices, three difficulty levels and three durations for a good spread of session options.
This app is available on both Android and iPhone.
Cost: Paid app – check the current price in the App Store or Google Play.
#10. Workout Trainer App
Get in shape with a large range of free workouts and premium workout programmes to help you hit your fitness goals. Workout Trainer is ideal if you want to get moving without any exercise equipment.
This app is available on both Android and iPhone.
Cost: Free
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these fitness apps free to use?
Most of the apps on this list have a free version, often with optional paid upgrades or premium content. A few are paid apps from the outset, so it’s worth checking the current price in the App Store or Google Play before downloading.
Do I need a fitness tracker or smartwatch to use them?
No. All of these apps work using your phone’s built-in GPS and sensors, so you can get started with just your phone.
Which app is best for a complete beginner?
Couch-to-5K is a great starting point if you’re new to running, as it builds you up gradually over nine weeks. If you prefer strength or flexibility work over running, Nike Training Club or Pocket Yoga are good beginner-friendly options.
Can kids use fitness apps too?
Some of these apps are aimed at adults, but the idea of tracking activity and setting small goals works well for older children and teens too, ideally with a parent keeping an eye on screen time and content.
Related Articles
- Mykidstime 21 Day Fitness Challenge: Get Fitter in 3 Weeks
- 20 Easy Tips To Encourage Healthy Eating
- Fun Ways to Get the Whole Family Moving Together
Keep Getting Fit as a Family
Not ready to commit to a printable plan? No problem – bookmark this page so you can come back and compare apps whenever you’re ready to start, or browse our other family fitness and wellbeing ideas for more inspiration.
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