Best Workout Apps for Every Fitness Level – Trainer-Approved
As a personal trainer, I rely on workout apps several times a week for their convenience, affordability, and ability to track progress. They keep me motivated and help me squeeze in quick home workouts when time is tight.
With so many options available, the Good Housekeeping Institute Wellness Lab tested over 30 workout apps, gathering feedback from real users on workout difficulty, class quality, and overall experience. Here are the top-rated workout apps for every fitness level to help you stay on track and reach your goals.
Peloton App
Best Overall
Pros
✔️ Expert instructors from the fitness industry
✔️ Large workout community and extensive class library
✔️ Easy-to-use interface
Cons
❌ Limited access to certain metrics without Peloton equipment
Availability: iOS, Android | Cost: $13/month, $129/year
The Peloton app remains a top pick among testers and fitness enthusiasts, thanks to its elite instructors and user-friendly interface. Its intuitive filters make it easy to find the perfect workout in seconds—whether by type, duration, or instructor.
Beyond cycling and running, the app offers a vast selection of high-quality classes, including yoga, barre, HIIT, strength training, stretching, and even prenatal workouts. Testers praised the engaging instructors, motivating playlists, and immersive studio-like experience. With new classes added regularly, there’s always something fresh to keep you moving.
Apple Fitness+
Best Variety
Pros
✔️ Extensive class library
✔️ Multiple trainers per class offering modifications
✔️ 4K Ultra HD workout videos
Cons
❌ Only available on compatible Apple devices
Availability: iOS | Cost: $10/month or $80/year (plus three free months with most new Apple devices)
Apple Fitness+ impresses with top-tier instructors, high-quality workout videos, and a diverse range of classes, from HIIT to yoga. Each session features multiple trainers demonstrating modifications, making workouts accessible for all fitness levels while fostering a team-like atmosphere.
Originally exclusive to Apple Watch users, the app is now available on iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV. However, the best experience comes with an Apple Watch, which tracks heart rate and recovery in real time. Testers loved the personalized feedback and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem.
Alo Moves
Best for Wellness
Pros
✔️ Excellent class content and instructors
✔️ Popular for yoga, barre, and Pilates
✔️ Includes complimentary wellness content like nutrition programs
Cons
❌ Limited search filters within the app
Availability: iOS | Cost: $13/month, $129/year
Alo Moves delivers top-tier barre, Pilates, yoga, and HIIT workouts, making it a favorite for wellness-focused fitness. With over 3,000 classes, the app offers engaging sessions led by expert instructors like Emily Sferra and Bianca Wise.
While navigation isn’t as seamless as some competitors, Alo Moves makes up for it with beautifully filmed workouts in stunning locations. Testers loved the app’s energizing workouts for all fitness levels and the ability to download sessions for offline use—perfect for outdoor yoga or travel-friendly fitness.
Sweat
Best for Women
Pros
✔️ All-female instructors
✔️ Workouts tailored for women at all stages of life
✔️ Strong and supportive community
Cons
❌ Many workouts require screen interaction after each set
Availability: iOS & Android | Cost: $25/month, $135/year
Designed for women by women, the Sweat app features expert-led workouts tailored to all fitness levels. High-Intensity Zero Equipment sessions by Kayla Itsines offer effective circuit training, while Kelsey Wells’ post-pregnancy program is a standout for new moms.
Testers loved the motivating instructors, user-friendly interface, and ability to preview workouts before starting. While interaction with the screen is required between sets, the app’s well-structured programs and strong community make it a top choice for women’s fitness.
Centr
Best for Men
Pros
✔️ Great selection of strength training workouts
✔️ Effective fitness and nutrition plans
✔️ User-friendly interface
Cons
❌ Not the best choice for beginners
Availability: iOS & Android | Cost: $30/month
Created by Chris Hemsworth and his expert team, Centr is more than just a workout app—it’s a complete wellness program. Offering HIIT, strength, and Pilates sessions alongside nutrition plans and chef-curated recipes, it’s perfect for those seeking a full lifestyle transformation.
Testers loved its holistic approach, combining fitness, meditation, and meal planning. The 13-week Centr Power program is a standout for building strength, and the brand even offers premium home gym equipment to enhance your training.
Future
Best for Personal Training
Pros
✔️ Personal training from home
✔️ Tailored workout programs
✔️ Movement demonstrations provided
Cons
❌ No visual interaction with the trainer during every session
Availability: iOS & Android | Cost: $199/month
Unlike most fitness apps, Future blends personalized training with at-home convenience. You’ll be paired with a real coach who tailors workouts to your goals, all for the cost of a single high-end gym session. While you won’t see your trainer live during workouts, you can message them anytime for adjustments and feedback.
Testers loved the human connection, daily chats, and progress tracking. “My trainer customizes workouts for my travels and keeps me accountable—I love the personal touch,” one user shared.
Nike Training Club
Best for Free Workouts
Pros
✔️ Suitable for all fitness levels
✔️ Offers a variety of workout types
✔️ Easy-to-use interface
Cons
❌ Smaller workout library compared to other platforms
Availability: iOS & Android | Cost: Free
The Nike Training Club app has been a go-to for me since college—mainly because it’s completely free. It offers a solid selection of workouts with an intuitive interface that lets you filter by type, muscle group, and equipment. Plus, it includes nutrition and wellness tips.
Testers praised the variety of programs for all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. “There’s something for everyone!” one user noted. The efficient, easy-to-follow workouts are perfect for small spaces, making it great for apartment-friendly fitness. While the library (600+ workouts) is smaller than paid apps, it’s an excellent free option. “Perfect for quick at-home workouts,” another tester shared.
Shred
Best for Strength Training
Pros
✔️ Workouts designed by professional trainers
✔️ Customizable for at-home or gym equipment
✔️ Includes cardio training options
Cons
❌ App can be a bit glitchy
Availability: iOS & Android | Cost: $19.99/month or $119.99/year for unlimited access
Shred is known for its intense strength training circuits, combining AI-powered workouts with expert-designed routines. The app starts with a quiz to understand your fitness goals, then suggests daily workouts based on your preferences. “I like hypertrophy training by body part, so Shred recommends whether I should do upper body, lower body, full body, or abs each day,” one tester shared. Users can also customize their workouts by selecting different muscle groups, with each session including written instructions and video demonstrations.
A standout feature is the ability to switch between gym and home workouts, adjusting exercises based on available equipment. While the app can be occasionally glitchy, testers appreciated its cardio training section, which automatically generates running workouts with interval variations to keep things dynamic.
Glo
Best for Yoga
Pros
✔️ Content for all fitness levels
✔️ Focuses primarily on yoga and Pilates
✔️ Easy-to-use interface
Cons
❌ Limited features unless you purchase a membership
Availability: iOS and Android | Cost: $30/month, $245/year
Whether you’re a dedicated yogi or a downward dog beginner, Glo’s 8,000 classes (and counting!) make it the ultimate pick for practitioners at every level. Download the app, grab your yoga mat and take a quiz to get personalized recommendations, then search for and follow your favorite teachers. I especially love that you can download sessions to do later — perfect when you won’t have access to Wi-Fi.
You can enjoy live classes with other Glo members, and you’re able to search based on class duration, practice, instructor, body part, intensity level and more. Testers also appreciate that the app offers meditation content.
Strava
Best for Runners and Cyclists
Pros
✔️ Simple way to track your stats
✔️ Ideal for discovering new routes
✔️ Encouraging and supportive community
Cons
❌ Does not include fitness classes
Availability: iOS & Android | Cost: $12/month or $80/year
Strava is the go-to app for runners, cyclists, and hikers, perfect for those who prefer outdoor activities over yoga or barre. Introduced to me by my marathon-running sister, Strava is a favorite among serious runners. It tracks essential stats like speed, pace, elevation, and more to help you monitor and improve your performance.
The app also offers monthly challenges and competitions, adding a fun, motivational element. You can connect with the Strava community as well as friends and contacts on social media. With a subscription, you get access to in-depth performance analyses and safety features that share your location with designated contacts during your workout. However, note that there are no follow-along fitness classes available on this platform.
How to Choose the Best Workout App for You
When selecting the best workout app, it’s essential to keep a few key factors in mind, according to Schlinger: “The best options should offer a program tailored to your goals (which the app should ask you about initially) and provide alternative programs in case you’re not satisfied with the recommendation.” Here’s what to consider:
✔️ Personal Fitness Goals: Whether you’re aiming to tone, build muscle, boost cardio, or achieve a combination of all, clarify your goals before choosing an app. Consider what types of exercise you enjoy and what aligns best with your fitness objectives.
✔️ Cost: Many apps offer free trials, allowing you to test them out before committing to a subscription. While investing in your health is important, it’s wise to consider the app’s cost in relation to your monthly budget.
✔️ Intensity: If you’re a beginner, ensure the app offers entry-level options with modifications during each workout. The best apps cater to all fitness levels and accommodate various body types.
✔️ Community: Working out at home can lack the camaraderie of a gym, but many apps now feature supportive virtual communities. These communities can offer motivation both within the app and through related social media groups.
