The Best Apps to Use for Workout Plans

Like many people, perhaps you have good intentions of starting and sticking to a workout plan, but are having a little trouble moving into the action phase. Your phone could even be contributing to your lack of motivation. After all, it provides plenty of potential distractions. Fortunately, there are several apps for workout plans that could help you shift into gear and see desirable results — turning your phone into a workout helper, instead of a hindrance.

1. Sworkit

This app stands out because it lets you create customized workouts or pick from dozens, based on your goals. Available for Android and iOS, Sworkit also has a desktop interface, unlike some other apps for workout plans. Even better, your data syncs across all devices for easy access wherever you are. (Free 30-day trial, then $29.99 per quarter or $79.99 per year)

2. Nike Training Club

Not all apps for workout plans have famous, athletics-related brands behind them, but this one does. Packed with more than 100 fitness routines, it offers audio and video instructions to help you perform all the movements correctly and feel confident as you do. It also adapts to your needs. For example, if you miss a day of working out, the app helps you get back on track. (Free)

3. Jefit

Jefit goes beyond what some other apps for workout plans offer because it takes a data-driven approach to getting fit. Analyze statistics associated with your trends and get guidance for noticeable improvements. The Progress Picture feature compares before-and-after images to keep you motivated. Plus, the exercise library features more than 1,000 choices, preventing you from getting bored or hitting a plateau. Alternatively, go with one of more than 3,000 weekly exercise plans.

Download Jefit for iOS or Android and use it on your computer as well. (Free with available premium tier for $39.99 per year)

4. Daily Ab Workout

After using this abdominal-specific workout app, you could discover your goal of a sculpted midsection isn’t far from reach. Made for iOS, it’s excellent for men and women and gives you a choice of different workouts to do based on the amount of time you have available.

Because it presents ab exercises to do in manageable sessions, it could help you adhere to your decision to finally get a six-pack. Audio feedback gives encouragement along the way, and there’s an on-screen timer that makes sure you do each exercise long enough. (Free)

5. Skimble Workout Trainer

This iOS and Android app provides smart recommendations based on actions you take while using it. Also, while browsing the library of exercises, you can get information about them that could help you decide which ones best fit your needs. See which ones are appropriate for your fitness level, understand the targeted muscle groups and more.

If you’d prefer professional guidance, the app lets you connect with a personal trainer for one-on-one assistance. That option could help you reach goals if you’re training for something specific, such as a marathon.

(Free with a premium version available. The paid option offers a seven-day trial, then automatically bills you $6.99 per month unless you cancel.)

6. 8fit

Unlike the other apps discussed so far, 8fit incorporates a meal-planning aspect into it to help you live a healthier lifestyle overall. Available for Android and iOS, it also relies on high-intensity, short bursts of exercise to help you get closer to your goals. Some of those exercises only last for five minutes, so they’re excellent if you already have some difficulty getting in the mood to move.

7. The Johnson & Johnson Official Seven-Minute Workout App

This Android and iOS app does what it promises in the name and equips you to break a sweat even if you have a busy schedule. Choose from 72 exercises and 22 other workouts to create more than 1,000 variations. There’s also a smart workout feature that suggests things to do based on your level of fitness and motivation. (Free)

By trying at least one of these workout-centric apps, you should find it’s easier than you thought to make fitness an immediate way of life, instead of just something you want to do at some point. They don’t require a gym membership, but if you already go to a fitness center occasionally or regularly, they’ll help you make the most of your time there, too.