THE TOP 10 FITNESS APPS OF 2024
Staying consistent with fitness can be a challenge. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or just life in general, having the right tools can make all the difference. Fitness apps are that tool, offering everything from personalised workouts to meal planning and progress tracking.
In 2024, there are more options than ever. But which one is best for you? Let’s explore the 10 best fitness apps of 2024 and look at their features, cost, compatibility, and the pros and cons to help you decide.
MyFitnessPal
Used For: Nutrition and calorie tracking
Compatible Devices: iOS, Android, desktop
Cost: Free version with basic tracking tools, premium version costs $19.99/month or $79.99/year, which includes macro tracking, meal plans, and no ads.
Overview
MyFitnessPal is primarily a calorie and nutrition tracking app. It boasts the largest food database on the market, with over 14 million entries. It also integrates with fitness trackers like Fitbit and Apple Watch to sync exercise data. Users can log meals, scan barcodes, and customise their nutrition goals.
Pros
Extensive food database
Tracks macros and micronutrients
Compatible with multiple fitness devices
Easy-to-use interface
Cons
The free version has ads
Premium subscription required for advanced features like meal plans and detailed reports
Strava
Used For: Running, cycling, and outdoor activities
Compatible Devices: iOS, Android, wearable devices (e.g., Garmin, Fitbit)
Cost: Free version with basic activity tracking, premium costs $11.99/month or $79.99/year for advanced metrics, route planning, and live tracking.
Overview
Strava is a GPS-based fitness app designed for runners, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts. It tracks routes, distance, pace, and elevation. The app also includes a social aspect, allowing users to share activities and join challenges with friends or community groups.
Pros
Excellent for tracking and analysing outdoor activities
Social features create motivation through friendly competition
Advanced metrics for serious athletes in the premium version
Cons
Limited features in the free version
Not be ideal for ‘traditional’ indoor workouts
Fitbod
Used For: Strength training and weightlifting
Compatible Devices: iOS, Android
Cost: $12.99/month or $79.99/year
Overview
Fitbod generates personalised strength training routines based on your goals, experience level, and available equipment. It uses AI to adapt workouts as you progress, focusing on muscle groups you’re yet to target.
Pros
Customisable workouts for any fitness level
Progress tracking with detailed stats
Video tutorials for correct form
Cons
Only suitable for gym-goers or those with equipment
Limited cardio or flexibility training options
Nike Training Club
Used For: General fitness, strength, cardio, and mobility
Compatible Devices: iOS, Android
Cost: Free version includes most workouts, Premium costs $14.99/month or $119.99/year.
Overview
Nike Training Club offers on-demand classes and guided workout plans across various disciplines. The app caters to beginners and advanced users, with a wide range of workouts on offer designed by Nike trainers.
Pros
Wide variety of workouts, including yoga and HIIT
Excellent for all fitness levels
Free version includes plenty of high-quality workouts
Cons
Premium content may not be necessary for casual users
Less emphasis on nutrition compared to competitors
Centr by Chris Hemsworth
Used For: Comprehensive fitness and wellness
Compatible Devices: iOS, Android, desktop
Cost: $29.99/month or $119.99/year
Overview
Centr combines fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness into a single platform. Workouts range from HIIT and strength training to yoga and meditation. The app includes meal plans and recipes tailored to dietary preferences.
Pros
All-in-one fitness, nutrition, and wellness solution
High production value with expert contributors
Community challenges keep users motivated
Cons
Expensive compared to other apps
Not suitable for those looking for just workouts or nutrition
JEFIT
Used For: Strength training and gym workouts
Compatible Devices: iOS, Android, desktop
Cost: Free version with basic features, premium version costs $6.99/month or $39.99/year for advanced analytics and no ads.
Overview
JEFIT is a gym-focused app offering pre-built workout plans and the ability to create custom routines. It includes over 1,400 exercises with detailed instructions and video demos.
Pros
Excellent for gym enthusiasts
Tracks progress with detailed stats and charts
Affordable premium option
Cons
Not suitable for cardio or flexibility training
Free version includes ads
Peloton
Used For: Home workouts, live and on-demand classes
Compatible Devices: iOS, Android, Peloton equipment
Cost: $12.99/month and additional cost for Peloton equipment
Overview
Peloton offers a variety of workouts, including cycling, strength training, yoga, and more. While it is designed to be used with Peloton equipment, the app can be used independently for certain non-cycling classes.
Pros
Motivational live classes with leaderboards
Wide variety of workout types
High-quality production and instruction
Cons
Monthly subscription can add up
Best experience requires Peloton equipment
Eight Sleep
Used For: Recovery and sleep optimisation
Compatible Devices: iOS, Android (requires Eight Sleep mattress or Pod)
Cost: $20/month (with purchase of Eight Sleep system)
Overview
Eight Sleep focuses on recovery by improving your sleep quality. The app pairs with Eight Sleep mattresses or pods to track sleep metrics and regulate temperature for optimal rest.
Pros
Perfect for athletes focused on recovery
Detailed sleep insights
Unique temperature regulation feature
Cons
Requires expensive hardware
Limited fitness-focused features
Aaptiv
Used For: Audio-based workouts
Compatible Devices: iOS, Android
Cost: $14.99/month or $99.99/year
Overview
Aaptiv is an audio-guided workout app offering programs for running, strength training, yoga, and more. It’s ideal for those who prefer voice coaching without needing to watch a screen.
Pros
Great for on-the-go workouts
Diverse workout types
Motivational coaching
Cons
No visual guidance may be a drawback
Premium pricing without a free version
Down Dog
Used For: Yoga and Pilates
Compatible Devices: iOS, Android
Cost: Free version available, premium features cost $7.99/month or $49.99/year
Overview
Down Dog offers customisable yoga routines tailored to skill level, focus, and available time. It also includes Pilates, HIIT, and meditation options.
Pros
Highly customisable routines
Suitable for beginners and advanced users
Affordable premium option
Cons
Limited features in the free version
Focused primarily on yoga
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Choosing the right fitness app depends on your specific goals, preferences, and fitness level.
After reviewing the best options available in 2024, here are the standout picks in their respective categories:
Best Nutrition Tracker: MyFitnessPal
If your primary focus is on nutrition and calorie management, MyFitnessPal is for you.
Its extensive food database and easy logging capabilities make it perfect for tracking what you eat, whether your goal is weight loss, muscle gain, or maintenance.
Best for Strength Training: Fitbod
For those prioritising strength training, Fitbod is unmatched.
Its AI-driven workouts adapt to your fitness level and equipment availability, ensuring every session targets your goals effectively.
It simplifies tracking and eliminates the guesswork, making it an invaluable app for gym enthusiasts or anyone looking to build muscle.
Best All-Round: Nike Training Club
For a comprehensive approach to fitness, Nike Training Club takes the cake. Offering a variety of workouts for strength, cardio, mobility, and yoga, it’s suitable for all fitness levels.
Unlike other apps, its free version provides a robust selection of workouts with its versatility, high-quality content, and affordability making it a standout.
Whether you’re counting calories, building muscle, or looking for a well-rounded approach to health, there’s a fitness app to help you stay consistent and achieve your goals in 2024.