Obvious statement alert: Getting to the gym on super-busy days can be damn near impossible. Plus, when everyone’s trying to hit their #fitnessgoals, enough space to get your sweat on can be hard to come by. Rather than skip a workout, why not take it mobile?
That’s the beauty of workout apps — there are plenty of options out there for everyone from yogis to lifters to runners. Many are free to download, too.
What’s also great about using a workout app is that you can track your progress. By reviewing your data each week you’ll be able to identify whether you’re working too hard, not training enough or not hitting the ideal heart rate long enough for significant calorie burn.
Here you’ll find a list of the 8 top workout apps — all approved by fitness pros. Each one will basically turn your phone into your very own personal trainer. Time to sweat. it. out.
Strava
So many runners and cyclists use Strava — and that’s likely because the workout app is so big on community. You can follow friends, see their routes, share photos, and compete in challenges. It allows you to stay connected with your fit friends, which is a great way to hold each other accountable.
The best part: You can easily find places to run if you’re in a new city, thanks to the local feature that shows popular routes in major cities.
Best for: Cardio
Price: Free; premium: R114.99
Get it: iOS | Android
READ MORE: The Latest Smartwatches Are Literally MADE For Fitness Junkies
PUMATRAC
This is a great ‘all-round’ app that appeals to runners and gym-goers alike. Pick a goal (running, fitness, weight loss) and the nifty scheduler will help plan the right workouts you need to reach your goals. The super-smart algorithm will serve up personalised workouts from PUMA’s huge library of performance-based running and training content.
The best part: You can workout with the PUMA Global Athletes (like our very own Takkies) and learn from the pros.
Best for: HIIT/Strength
Price: Free
Wattbike Hub
The ultimate app for cyclists who are looking to improve their skills in the saddle! Whether you’re a pro or a complete newbie, the app has workouts for every level — from recovery rides and endurance to speed building session and HIIT. You can also keep an eye on your pedalling efficiency in real-time which will help you monitor your performance as you ride.
The best part: You can accurately monitor your live power, heart rate, cadence and training zones so that you can hit your training targets.
Best for: Cardio
Price: Free
Down Dog
Start (and maintain) a regular yoga practice right at home with this easy-to-use app. It offers sequences ranging from 10 to 90 minutes and easily caters to all experience levels.
The best part: Some stand-out music that flows with your practice. To top it off, each time you sign on, the app generates a new vinyasa yoga routine, so you never have to repeat the same thing. Genius, especially for those who get bored easily!
Best for: Yoga
Price: Free, with in-app purchases
Couch to 5K
Swap that Netflix night for a few laps around your neighbourhood. All you have to do is download this app, which will get beginner runners clocking 5k in just eight weeks.
The best part: The plan is laid out so it’s super-easy to follow and requires you to do 30-minute runs three days a week.
Best for: Cardio
Price: R79.99 | R40.99
Zwift
This app basically turns your ride (or run) into a fun video game… but with the intensity of hardcore training! You can spin your way through central London, stride through New York City, train, race, make new virtual friends and find new competitors.
The best part: All you need is a compatible gym bike or treadmill to turn every ride and run into a game.
Best for: Cardio
Price: Free, with in-app purchases
FitGirl Fitness App
Aneeka Buys — the powerhouse behind the Women’s Health Shedding For The Wedding exercise plan — is a master trainer at the exclusive Virgin Active Silo District club in Cape Town, where her client list reads like a who’s who of celebs and high-powered business execs. But if you don’t have access to the Silo gym, now you can train with Aneeka through her fitness app. The app is free to download but you pay to sign up for Aneeka’s six-week challenges, which happen in real-time (watch her Instagram for start dates) and cater for different fitness levels, from new moms just getting back into exercise to those looking to torch fat and build muscle in record time.
Best for: Community and support — you can interact with Aneeka and others on your challenge through the app
Price: R399
Get it: Fitgirl.co.za
TrainingPeaks
Prepping for a marathon, triathlon, or other major athletic event and want to improve your endurance? This app can customise your whole training plan. It bases everything off your heart rate threshold. You can track your heart rate during all sorts of workouts, especially long-distance runs, and speed workouts.
The best part: It updates your workouts and speed as your heart gets stronger. This data will help you improve your stamina and resist fatigue in preparation for your race.
Best for: Triathlon training
Price: Free, with in-app purchases
