Fitness apps are among the most popular ways beginners kick-start their workouts today. But with so many options, from free apps with simple routines to premium platforms with AI-driven coaching. It is easy to feel overwhelmed.
The big question is: Which fitness app is truly best for beginners? The answer depends on your goals, lifestyle, and whether you prefer guided workouts, tracking tools, or both. Let’s break down the leading apps, their unique strengths, and what makes them stand out for someone just starting.
Do you want to start your fitness journey now? You can book a free personalized fitness consultation with us.
Why Beginners Should Use Fitness Apps
Before diving into the list, let’s talk about why fitness apps are so effective for beginners:
- Guidance: They remove the guesswork by giving structured workout plans.
- Convenience: Train at home, in the gym, or even outdoors.
- Motivation: Progress tracking and reminders keep you accountable.
- Variety: From strength to cardio, yoga, and mobility, you can explore different styles.
According to Statista, the global fitness app market is expected to surpass $30 billion by 2030. This proofs that millions of people are already relying on them.
Best Fitness Apps for Beginners in 2025
1. Nike Training Club (NTC)
- Why it’s great: Offers a wide variety of free workouts, including beginner-friendly bodyweight sessions.
- Pros: Professional trainers, video demos, high-quality production.
- Cons: Advanced programs need a premium package.
- Best for: Beginners who want structured, high-quality workouts at no cost.
2. FitOn
- Why it’s great: 100% free with celebrity trainers and workout plans.
- Pros: Social features, nutrition guidance, customizable workouts.
- Cons: Some advanced features are locked behind a premium package.
- Best for: Beginners who want community support and motivation.
3. MyFitnessPal
- Why it’s great: Best for nutrition tracking and learning how to fuel your workouts.
- Pros: Massive food database, barcode scanning, and integrates with other apps.
- Cons: Less focus on workouts themselves.
- Best for: Beginners who need diet accountability alongside workouts.
4. JEFIT
- Why it’s great: Gym-focused app with preloaded routines and a large exercise library.
- Pros: Great for tracking strength progress, customizable routines.
- Cons: Can feel overwhelming for absolute beginners.
- Best for: Beginners who want to transition into weightlifting and bodybuilding.
5. Future (App)
- Why it’s great: Provides 1-on-1 virtual personal training with real coaches.
- Pros: Highly personalized, weekly updates, full accountability.
- Cons: Expensive compared to others.
- Best for: Beginners who want the experience of a personal trainer without being in the gym.
6. Centr by Chris Hemsworth
- Why it’s great: Combines workouts, nutrition, and mindfulness.
- Pros: Holistic approach—fitness, diet, and stress management.
- Cons: Subscription required.
- Best for: Beginners who want balance across all aspects of wellness.
7. Fitbod
- Why it’s great: Uses AI to generate workout routines based on your fitness level and available equipment.
- Pros: Smart, adaptive plans; detailed progress tracking.
- Cons: Better for strength than cardio.
- Best for: Beginners who want guidance that adapts as they improve.
8. 7 Minute Workout
- Why it’s great: Focused on ultra-quick, no-equipment routines perfect for beginners.
- Pros: Time-efficient, accessible anywhere.
- Cons: Limited variety if used long-term.
- Best for: Busy beginners who want results in short bursts.
9. StrongLifts 5×5
- Why it’s great: Simplifies strength training with a beginner-friendly program.
- Pros: Simple, progressive overload focus.
- Cons: Requires gym access with weights.
- Best for: Beginners curious about lifting and strength progression.
10. MapMyRun by Under Armour
- Why it’s great: Designed for cardio beginners, especially walking and running.
- Pros: GPS tracking, route planning, integrates with wearable.
- Cons: Limited strength training features.
- Best for: Beginners who want to start with walking, jogging, or running.
Expert Recommendation
If you’re budget-conscious, start with Nike Training Club or FitOn. If you want personalised training, consider hiring a trainer on Future Body Builders (FBB).
A study published in JMIR mHealth found that app users were more than twice as certain to meet fitness goals. This is in comparison to those without digital support.
Conclusion
Fitness apps are powerful tools for beginners, but the best one depends on your personal goals. You want guided workouts. You prefer diet tracking. Alternatively, you seek personal coaching. No matter your preference, there’s an app designed to get you moving in the right direction.
If you’re still unsure, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. You can book a free personalized fitness consultation with us today. We’ll design a beginner-friendly plan. This plan will be tailored to your body and lifestyle.
