It’s 2020 and you’re starting the new year the way you usually do: a pledge to join the gym and get fit.
But thanks to your smartphone there’s no need to cram into a sweaty space, queue up to use a machine, and pay a substantial amount in order to do so.
Here’s our pick of the best fitness apps for iPhone and Android so you can get fit without having to step over a gym threshold.
Best free fitness apps
30-day Ab Challenge
If you haven’t worked out in a while, then a challenge is a good way to kickstart that routine.
This app will start your workout journey slowly, with a mixture of sit-ups, crunches, planks, leg raises and twists, and will steadily build up over the month as you get fitter.
You’ll start to see those abs in no time.
Couch to 5K
Running has been proven to be more effective at slowing down ageing than weight training so get on your sneakers on and get going. It’s also a great, free activity; all you need are some streets and a little motivation.
The NHS app Couch to 5K promises to help you get there in a mere nine weeks. Ready, set, download, then go.
Nike Training Club
Nike’s Training Club app has to be one of the best free workout apps out there. There are over 185 workouts to get your teeth into, focused on different muscle groups, workout types and ability.
It’s great if you have a pair of bluetooth headphones: set up your playlist, start the workout on the app and hear the instructions over your music so you don’t need to stop and check what to do next.
Simply Yoga
Working out doesn’t need to be all planks and squats. Simply Yoga is a great way to get some stretches in, which can help with breathing, posture and your running schedule.
Choose from 20, 40, or 60-minute routines and get cracking. Each pose is demonstrated by a personal trainer so you can make sure you’re getting your technique right.
Strava
Strava is the app you need once you’ve started tackling your training plan full on.
You can use the app to record your different workout activities, such as cycling, swimming, or running, and analyse your training stats.
Strava also doubles up as a tracker, so you can run different Strava-certified routes that other people have tried out. Create a Strava feed and use it to record your progress, and friends and followers can join in too.
Sworkit
There are over 25 million people using Sworkit worldwide so you know its good. Choose what kind of workout you want and how much time you have and Sworkit will deliver a workout for you to try.
It’s best when it comes to body weight exercises so you can workout anywhere, in your living room, on holiday or even a quick stretch in the office.
My Virtual Mission
If you find pounding the pavements slightly mind-numbing then My Virtual Mission could be the key to you completing that 5 or 10k by the end of the year. Create virtual fitness challenges by mapping out a long-distance mission, say running across South America, and then every mile you exercise counts towards your goal.
It works for cycling, walking and swimming too as well as running.
Want to turn your exercise into something more meaningful? Raise funds for your favourite charity or cause along the way.
If you’re ready to invest in an at-home gym subscription then here’s our favourites, from Fiit (£19.99 a month) to Asana Rebel (£31 for three months).
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