As a certified personal trainer and fitness instructor, I genuinely appreciate in-person classes, but I also believe that the best workout apps can serve as an excellent alternative. These apps deliver intelligently designed, science-backed fitness programs and motivational coaching, enabling you to pursue your wellness objectives without breaking the bank. They offer the convenience of fitting workouts into your schedule, which is crucial for maintaining consistency in any fitness journey.
After welcoming my baby last year, I finally recognized the benefits of workout apps. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the results. Currently, my favorite is the BODi app, which has helped me establish a consistent strength training routine. To assist you in discovering your at-home fitness rhythm, I reached out to my network for recommendations on the most effective workout apps—those led by qualified instructors and, most importantly, enjoyable to use. Additionally, Glamour reviewers put various popular options to the test. Whether you’re a complete beginner, looking to build muscle, or just interested in integrating gentle exercises into your daily routine, here are the best workout apps you should consider downloading. All of these apps are compatible with both iPhone and Android, and they all feature free trial periods for you to explore before committing.
Quick Overview of the Best Workout Apps:
Top Workout App for Women: Obé
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Brie Schwartz, Glamour’s commerce director, came across Obé during the pandemic and found the cardio dance videos to be “a daily bright spot.” The app’s workouts are specifically tailored for women, offering features like cycle tracking, pelvic floor exercises, and pre/postnatal workouts.
The “true beauty” of the app, according to Schwartz, is the sense of community it fosters. “You really feel connected to the instructors, even though they’re presenting from a small screen. During live sessions, if you’re lucky, they might even call your name, which is such a thrill,” she shares. With a wide variety of workout types—including kickboxing, strength training, barre, Pilates, and cycling—available in durations from 5 to 60 minutes, “each class is an invigorating experience,” Schwartz adds. “The entire environment feels like a celebration and makes me dread hitting the gym a little less. I even lost weight and gained muscle during my time with it. Now, I utilize it for sculpting and weight training. Big shout-out to Spencer—his classes fly by and always leave me feeling sore but happy, and Alex’s boxing sessions are perfect for stress relief!”
Pros: Extensive variety of workouts, energetic community atmosphere, live streaming options.
Cons: May lack structure for those seeking a more regimented program; favorite instructors might not release new classes frequently.
Best Workout App for Weight Loss: Future
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Many of us can’t afford a personal trainer, but Future makes professional fitness guidance accessible. This approach resonated with Glamour contributor and mother of four, Brigitt Earley. “After completing a brief quiz about your lifestyle and fitness ambitions, the app pairs you with a selection of real trainers (not AI!) who align well with your profile,” Earley explains. “You can read about each trainer’s interests and specialties, and watch a brief video before making your selection.”
