Here we are in February already!. How are you doing with your 2014 goals? Here are a few of my favorite fitness apps. Did I miss any? Leave a comment below and let me know about your favorites.
7 Minute Workout
“I don’t have time to workout.” Well you have seven minutes don’t ya?
Includes a warm up and a variety of upper body and lower body exercises you can do using minimal equipment. I did not care for the dinging during the thirty second intervals. I did like the little party at the end. This app would work really well for those who have strength training experience in a class or with a personal trainer, know basic moves like wall sit and side plank and just want a quick and simple workout.
Overall rating: 8
Couch To 5K
“I just signed up for the Shamrock Run and have not put on my runners since 2013”
This is a progressive periodization program that will have you running a 5K in two months. I like that it includes a warm up, and jogging/ walking intervals. Marathon coaches like Jeff Galloway use the run/walk technique to train injury free. One of my clients has been using this app since January and so far he has not missed a training session! This is great for those who are looking to ease back into running without getting injured.
Overall rating: 10
My Fitness Pal
“I need specific guidance on nutrition, calories, activity, tracking my progress with hard numbers to see my results.”
This app does everything except drive you to the gym. You start by entering your age, weight and desired result (weight loss for example). You are given a calorie count for the day. You input your food and activity and it adjusts your numbers throughout the day. If you are into graphs, pie charts and numbers this is for you. Want to meet friends for happy hour? Check your numbers to see if you are allowed that glass of wine or dessert.
Overall Rating: 9
Fit Radio
“I need a stream of music set to a certain beat to keep me motivated during spin class.”
Music mix that gives BPM (beats per minute) so you can match your cadence to the bass line on your favorite tunes. Variety of music styles, the sample I listened to on the “classic rock” station included a pumped up version of Pat Benetar’s “Hit me with your best shot” into Frankie Goes To Hollywood’s “Relax”. I like the seamless flow from one song to the next, however the club like quality of the music did feel a little too much like a spring break party in Cabo (gee you’d never guess I’m almost 40 by that statement).
Overall rating: 6