The best fitness apps can help you get in shape while motivating you to meet your goals. Whether you love cardio, Pilates, HIIT, or a combination of these workout styles, there’s an app for you.

Some are free to use, while others offer a subscription style with access to an extensive library of classes.

What Are Your Fitness Goals?

You’ll want to pinpoint what your fitness goals are. If you wish to tone and sculpt, build muscle, or improve your cardio endurance, you’ll be more successful in meeting these objectives by setting measurable, actionable goals.

Fitness apps typically offer a variety of workouts. Some are designed for specific goals like running and cycling, while others include activities for different body parts such as abs and arms.

Aaptiv, for instance, brings the feel of boutique group classes to your living room with workouts that pair instructor and personal trainer audio cues with music you love. Reviewers say the app makes filtering workouts for your goals and schedule easy. They also appreciate that the app syncs with their Apple Watch so they can check off rep-based exercises.

Are You Looking for a High-Intensity Workout?

The best fitness apps offer a variety of workouts, from short guided stretches to full-length classes with instructor coaching. Many apps, such as a running watch or heart rate monitor, can connect to your favorite wearable devices.

Look for a fitness app with clear instructions, photos or videos, a workout timer, and exercise examples. This way, you’ll have everything you need to know to perform each workout properly and avoid injury.

Look for an app with a strong community presence, as well. Whether it’s members of live classes or a supportive online community like the Yoga in Bellingham, having peers to hold you accountable and cheer you on can make a big difference in your success. This feature is essential if you enjoy the camaraderie of a group setting or are naturally competitive.https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d10521.539402737459!2d-122.4548402!3d48.7554465!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0xca739abf1a660141!2sFitness%20Evolution%20-%20Bellingham!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1667412509876!5m2!1sen!2sus

Are You Looking for a Community?

Fitness apps that offer a sense of community help users stay motivated. This could be a live class offering, social feeds, or competition through leaderboards and score tracking. Users are more likely to be successful when they have an element of competition in their workouts, so these gamified apps can make exercise feel like a fun and rewarding hobby instead of a tedious chore.

Some apps also provide an in-person training experience without the added cost of gym memberships or a private trainer. These apps match each user with a personal fitness coach who develops a workout program that works with their schedule and goals. The coaches can even help you overcome obstacles like overcoming an injury or traveling.

Are You Looking for a Variety of Workouts?

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many workout apps have been on the market. Some of these apps have a monthly or annual subscription fee, but many offer free trials.

Fitness apps often include instructional videos to help users follow along. This feature benefits people who may need help understanding how to perform specific exercises or need clarification on whether they are doing them correctly.

Apps have various activities for all ages, abilities, and preferences.

Are You Looking for a Budget-Friendly App?

Many fitness apps offer workout sessions for a fraction of the cost of a gym membership or boutique classes. Look for an app that provides a range of types, lengths, and styles of workouts so you can find one that fits your preferences and experience levels.

Some fitness apps let you compete with friends or other app users, which can motivate you to keep up with your training.