Motivating Fitness Apps That Help You Get Fit

By: Tobias Sharp Last updated: 06/11/2024

Thanks to technology’s role in our daily lives, staying fit is more doable than ever. Fitness apps have transformed how we approach health and exercise, putting tools, guidance, and motivation directly into our hands. Whether you're a workout veteran or just starting out, the right app can make all the difference in keeping you motivated and on track. These apps track your progress while inspiring you to stick to your plan. They simplify goal setting, help you monitor performance, and offer features like guided workouts, challenges, and community support. Below, we’ll explore some of the most motivating fitness apps, each packed with unique features designed to empower you on your fitness path.

Why Fitness Apps Are Game-Changers

Fitness apps are so much more than step counters or calorie trackers. They serve as virtual coaches, accountability partners, and sources of encouragement, all tailored to meet your personal fitness goals.

One of the biggest hurdles in staying active is consistency. Fitness apps tackle this by offering:
Structure with planned workouts and routines.
Motivation through badges, milestones, and reminders.
Versatility to cater to all fitness levels, workout styles, and schedules.
Convenience to work out anywhere, whether at home or in the gym.
Progress tracking to see how far you've come, keeping you motivated over time.

Now, let’s check out some standout apps that help you get fit and make the process enjoyable.

1. MyFitnessPal

MyFitnessPal excels in making fitness personal. Known as one of the most versatile fitness apps, it takes a holistic approach to health and wellness by tracking both activity and nutrition.

Key Features:

A massive database of over 11 million foods and recipes to log meals easily.
A built-in calorie tracker to help you stay on top of your dietary goals.
Integration with other fitness apps and devices like Fitbit and Garmin.

How It Motivates You:

It provides daily insights into your diet and exercise and makes recommendations based on your goals. Seeing how simple changes, such as drinking more water or increasing your step count, lead to real results can keep you motivated every day.

2. Nike Training Club

Nike Training Club offers a range of workout styles and levels, making it an excellent choice for beginners and advanced athletes. The app focuses on personalized fitness routines designed by Nike trainers.

Key Features:

Guided workouts ranging from yoga and HIIT to strength training.
Plans tailored to your fitness goals, whether you want to tone, build strength, or simply stay active.
High-quality video demonstrations for each move, ensuring proper form.

How It Motivates You:

Nike’s sleek interface, along with real-time guidance, feels like having a coach in your pocket. Plus, completing workouts within beautifully crafted plans offers a sense of accomplishment.

3. Strava

If cycling, running, or walking are your go-to activities, Strava is your ultimate companion. Designed for athletes, this app offers robust community features and GPS tracking to monitor your outdoor adventures.

Key Features:

GPS tracking for runs, bike rides, or hikes to measure distance, speed, and elevation.
Community challenges and leaderboards that ignite friendly competition.
Analysis of your performance over time using easy-to-read data.

How It Motivates You:

Strava's standout feature is its community aspect. Joining challenges, comparing your progress with friends, and receiving “kudos” for completing workouts fosters a sense of accountability and fun.

4. Couch to 5K (C25K)

New to exercise and feeling overwhelmed? Couch to 5K is designed to ease beginners into running. With just 30 minutes a day, three times a week, this app promises to prep you for a 5K in a matter of weeks.

Key Features:

Gradual plans to build up your running distance and stamina.
Audio coaching to guide you step by step.
A supportive community of users sharing their progress and experiences.

How It Motivates You:

The bite-sized, manageable approach works wonders if you're struggling to start. Each completed workout gives you confidence and a visible pathway to success.

5. Peloton Digital

Peloton’s app brings the studio experience to your space, even if you don’t own one of their bikes. It offers a wide selection of on-demand and live classes for not just cycling, but running, yoga, strength exercises, and more.

Key Features:

Access to thousands of fitness classes led by renowned instructors.
Live sessions where you can compete with others for leaderboard positions.
Music playlists tailored to match the workout intensity.

How It Motivates You:

Peloton’s dynamic classes and charismatic instructors bring unmatched energy to workouts. Plus, having a live leaderboard pushes you to give your all.

6. FitOn

FitOn stands out for offering fantastic content for free. It provides workouts catered to all fitness levels, with no equipment required for many routines, making it one of the most accessible apps available.

Key Features:

Expert-guided workouts in strength, cardio, yoga, and more.
Time-efficient routines that fit into busy schedules.
A supportive in-app community where you can share and celebrate progress.

How It Motivates You:

By removing cost barriers and offering a variety of high-quality workouts, FitOn motivates you to stay active without excuses. The app’s gamified features, like earning badges, add a fun layer to your fitness routine.

7. Aaptiv

If you’re into audio workouts, Aaptiv is a must-try app. Mixing expert coaching with upbeat music, it guides you through exercises while keeping you entertained and energized.

Key Features:

Audio-guided workouts that cater to running, cycling, yoga, and strength training.
Playlists synced with the workout's intensity.
Personalized plans and progress tracking.

How It Motivates You:

The on-the-go audio format means you can work out anywhere, anytime. It keeps you immersed through engaging coaching and music, leaving little time for your mind to wander.

8. 7 Minute Workout

Pressed for time? The 7 Minute Workout app is perfect for squeezing exercise into the busiest of days. Its no-frills approach makes fitness accessible to everyone, no matter your schedule.

Key Features:

Quick, high-intensity workout circuits scientifically designed to get results.
Minimal equipment needed, making these workouts perfect for home or travel.
Easy-to-follow visuals and instructions.

How It Motivates You:

Knowing you only need seven minutes removes a major excuse for skipping exercise. It’s ideal for jumpstarting your day or refocusing during a midday slump.

9. Down Dog

For yoga enthusiasts, Down Dog is a standout app offering customizable and high-quality yoga sessions. It suits both beginners and longtime practitioners.

Key Features:

Fully customizable sessions, from foundational flows to advanced practices.
Options to tailor difficulty, duration, and even background music.
Beautiful visuals and soothing narration to guide each pose.

How It Motivates You:

By creating a serene, distraction-free space, Down Dog encourages you to check in with your body and mind regularly. Each practice feels fresh and tailored to your needs.