The Top Fitness Apps

The Olympics might be done and dusted but our new found enthusiasm for sport is still going strong. With this in mind we’ve found the best fitness apps for your smart phone to help you on your way. 

Price: free

Platform: Android, iPhone, Blackberry, Symbian

Despite the name, this app isn’t just for all the runners out there. It monitors 14 sports including cycling and hiking and calculates the efficiency of your workout by telling you your speed, distance, length of work out and calories burnt. You then upload your stats to Twitter and Facebook so your followers can see how you’re getting on. There’s no instructional videos, tips or workout guides but it’s great if you simply want to quantify your exercise and see how well you’re doing. 

Price: 69p

Platform: iPhone and iPad

This app is basically an encyclopedia of 1700 exercises categorised into groups like core, lower body, chest, shoulders, back, arms, cardio and stretches. Each exercise has photos and animations to show you how to do it properly. Where this app differs from others is it also shows you how to bring equipment like the barbell, dumbells and resistant bands into your routines. You can then build your own workout routines and track your body weight and measurements so you can see your results clearly. 

Price: 69p

Platform: iPhone, iPad and Android

This app uses the GPS in your smartphone to track your speed, distance, elapsed time and calories burnt. Immediately after your workout your stats are uploaded to the website Garmin Connect where you can monitor your results via your personalised dashboard. This app also has the added benefit of being compatible with fitness sensors such as a foot pod or a cycling censor so you can gather even more information to get the most out of your fitness regime. 

Price: £1.19

Platform: iPhone

If you’re already in to your fitness apps then you will more than likely be aware of Nike’s running application – it’s a cult favourite with runners. The new, updated version of this software no longer depends on a sensor being in your trainers to map your runs – instead it uses the iPhone’s accelerometer and GPS to monitor your speed and running route. 

Price: Free

Platforms: iPhone, iPad and android

This is a targeted app for people who already have a fitness regime in place but who perhaps want to step it up a notch. It’s designed to improve four key areas: flexibility, core stability, balance and strength. The app creates a personalised four-week plan to improve the above with video tutorial exercises including warm up and cool down exercises. You can adjust the difficulty levels as well so you get as much out of each exercise as possible.