Embarking on a fitness journey can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when you’re just getting started. Whether your goal is to improve your health, lose weight, or simply get moving, finding the right tools can make all the difference. Today, we’re diving into the best fitness apps for beginners that can help you create a workout routine, stay motivated, and achieve your fitness goals—all from the comfort of your home or the gym. From yoga to strength training, there’s an app out there for everyone, and we’re breaking down the best options to make it easy for you to choose the right one.
1. Best Overall: Nike Training Club
When it comes to accessibility, variety, and quality, the Nike Training Club app is one of the best fitness apps for beginners. This app offers a wide array of workouts, ranging from strength training and yoga to cardio and mobility. Nike Training Club features programs that cater to all fitness levels, and it’s especially friendly for beginners who need to start slowly and build their confidence. What’s even better? The app is completely free, so you don’t have to worry about subscriptions or hidden fees.
Nike Training Club makes it simple to navigate through workout routines based on your fitness goals—whether you want to work on endurance, strength, or flexibility. The classes are led by professional trainers who not only demonstrate exercises but also provide plenty of modifications and tips for those who are just starting out. Plus, the app has a collection of 15- to 45-minute workouts that can fit into even the busiest of schedules.
- Cost: Free
- Pros: Variety of workouts, beginner-friendly, professional trainers, free access
- Cons: No personalized coaching
- Available on: iOS and Android
2. Best for Personalized Guidance: Future
If you’re looking for more personalized training but without the hefty price tag of a personal trainer, Future might be the perfect app for you. Future connects you with a real-life personal trainer who customizes workout programs just for you based on your fitness level and goals. Though the app is a bit more expensive compared to others on this list, you get a level of one-on-one guidance that makes it feel like you have a dedicated coach.
When you sign up, you’re matched with a trainer who creates a tailored plan based on your preferences and schedule. The trainer also sends motivating messages and checks in regularly to keep you on track—a great boost for beginners who need an accountability buddy. The only downside is that you won’t have live interaction during every workout, but rest assured, all of your workouts are designed by a professional to maximize your progress.
- Cost: $199/month
- Pros: One-on-one coaching, tailored workout plans, accountability from a real trainer
- Cons: Higher price point, no live sessions during workouts
- Available on: iOS and Android
3. Best for Variety and Motivation: Peloton App
Think Peloton is just for cyclists? Think again. Peloton’s app is a treasure trove of fitness classes that goes far beyond its well-known cycling sessions. Beginners will love the wide variety of workouts—from yoga and strength to HIIT and meditation. The Peloton trainers are some of the best in the business and have an amazing ability to keep you motivated throughout each session.
The Peloton App’s on-demand and live classes allow you to choose what fits best into your routine. Whether you’re starting with 10-minute stretching exercises or 20-minute beginner yoga sessions, Peloton’s trainers make each workout fun, challenging, and rewarding. There’s also a strong community vibe that adds an extra layer of encouragement—making it easier to stay consistent with your fitness goals.
- Cost: $13/month or $129/year
- Pros: Variety of workouts, live and on-demand classes, motivating trainers
- Cons: Limited metrics if you don’t have Peloton equipment
- Available on: iOS and Android
4. Best for Yoga and Mindfulness: Glo
For beginners who are interested in getting into yoga, Glo is a fantastic option. This app offers more than 5,000 classes, ranging from beginner yoga and stretching to more advanced vinyasa and meditation. You can start with a simple quiz to determine which classes are best suited to your needs and gradually progress at your own pace.
What makes Glo especially great for beginners is its emphasis on ease and comfort. You can filter classes by intensity level, duration, and even which part of the body you’re focusing on—helping you find the perfect class for your needs. Glo also offers meditation classes, which can help beginners develop a mindfulness routine to complement their physical workouts.
- Cost: $30/month or $245/year
- Pros: Excellent for yoga beginners, great filtering options, quality instructors
- Cons: Focused primarily on yoga and Pilates
- Available on: iOS and Android
5. Best for Women: SWEAT
SWEAT, founded by renowned trainer Kayla Itsines, is an app specifically designed for women and has become a popular choice for beginners. SWEAT offers various programs, including HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), strength training, and post-pregnancy workouts—all designed by female trainers for women at different phases of their fitness journey. If you’re just starting out, SWEAT’s beginner-friendly content and motivating community can help you build a consistent routine that aligns with your fitness goals.
One standout feature of SWEAT is the High-Intensity Zero Equipment program. This is perfect for beginners who might not have access to gym equipment and want to ease into fitness at home. SWEAT’s community aspect is also a big motivator for many beginners, providing a space to share progress and stay inspired.
- Cost: $20/month or $120/year
- Pros: Tailored for women, diverse beginner-friendly programs, strong community
- Cons: Requires interaction with the screen between sets
- Available on: iOS and Android
6. Best for Strength Training: Fitbod
If strength training is something you want to explore, Fitbod is one of the best apps for beginners to do just that. Fitbod creates personalized strength training plans based on your fitness level, available equipment, and goals. What makes it ideal for beginners is that the workouts are carefully tailored and adapt based on your progress, ensuring that you don’t get overwhelmed with challenging exercises from the get-go.
The app helps you learn basic strength training movements through clear video demonstrations and instructions, so you can understand how to execute each exercise with proper form. As you progress, the app continues to adapt your plan and push you just a little bit further—helping you build strength steadily and confidently.
- Cost: $12.99/month or $79.99/year
- Pros: Adaptive strength programs, excellent exercise demonstrations, beginner-friendly
- Cons: No live classes, limited to strength training
- Available on: iOS and Android
How to Choose the Best Fitness App for You
Selecting the ideal fitness app depends on your personal fitness goals, budget, and preferences. Here are a few things to consider:
- Personal Goals: Are you looking to build strength, improve cardio, or enhance flexibility? Identifying your goals can help you select the app that best fits your needs.
- Budget: Many apps offer free versions, while others require subscriptions. Check if they offer free trials to give you a sense of what you’ll get before committing.
- Intensity Level: Make sure the app offers beginner-friendly options with modifications. The best fitness apps cater to different fitness levels, making it easy for beginners to start and progress.
- Community: Apps like Peloton and SWEAT have strong community features, which can be highly motivating, especially when you’re starting out.
Final Thoughts
The right fitness app can make all the difference for beginners who are just getting started. Whether you prefer the personalized touch of Future, the community-driven vibe of SWEAT, or the variety of classes on Nike Training Club, each app has its unique strengths that can help you stay consistent and motivated on your fitness journey. Remember, the key to making progress is finding an activity that you enjoy and fits your lifestyle—so don’t be afraid to try out a few apps until you find the one that clicks.