Trainer-Approved Workout Apps
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We love a workout app because there’s very little downside to giving one a try. Most offer a free trial, which lets you explore the workouts, features, and overall vibe before committing. Compared to an in-person gym membership, fitness apps are typically more affordable, far more convenient, and they take the guesswork out of programming our own workouts. Since you can use them anytime, anywhere, they’re also one of our favorite tools for staying consistent (and seeing real results).
Of course, scrolling the app store can feel overwhelming, and not every fitness app delivers high-quality programming. That’s why our exercise professionals in the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition & Fitness Lab tested more than 40 workout apps to find the ones that truly stand out. We evaluated everything from the quality of the workouts and variety of classes to how intuitive the apps felt to use. We also brought in real-life testers to share their experiences, including how challenging the workouts were, how engaging the classes felt, and whether the apps helped them stay motivated. Ahead, we’re sharing the best workout apps to elevate your fitness routine, no matter your goal or experience level.
Our Top Picks:
So, do fitness apps actually work? In our experience, they can, but consistency is key. “Workout apps definitely do work — the question is whether or not you stay committed to them,” says personal trainer Amy Schlinger, NASM-CPT. “If you download or subscribe to an app but only use it once a week or sometimes not at all, you’re unlikely to see any results. However, if you commit to using the app and doing the workouts, you should notice changes.”
Other popular workout apps we recommend
While the workout apps listed above performed best in our tests, there are several other options worth considering:
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Tone It Up: Created by trainers Katrina Scott and Karena Dawn, Tone It Up offers a wide range of classes, from toning and sculpting to pregnancy and postnatal workouts. You’ll also find dance, kickboxing, barre, and strength training programs suitable for all levels and intensities. Available on iOS and Android.
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Body by Blogilates: Led by fitness influencer Cassey Ho, Body by Blogilates brings her fun, effective Pilates workouts to an easy-to-navigate app. The library includes classes targeting specific body parts and fitness goals, building on the popularity of her YouTube channel, which has over 11 million subscribers. Available on iOS and Android.
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Jazzercise On Demand: Jazzercise has been reimagined digitally by Skyla Nelson, granddaughter of founder Judi Sheppard Missett. The app brings classic dance-based fitness to a modern platform, offering both nostalgia and fresh content. Available on iOS and Android.
Good Housekeeping / Amanda Constantine
How we test workout apps
The experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition & Fitness Lab have tested more than 40 workout apps, combining hands-on evaluations with real-life feedback from GH staffers and consumer testers. This comprehensive approach gives us a clear picture of which apps deliver results, which are enjoyable to use, and which fall short.
To determine our top picks, we focused on apps with a wide variety of content, from strength and cardio to yoga and Pilates, ensuring users of all fitness levels can find something that suits their goals. We also prioritized effectiveness, favoring thoughtfully programmed workouts and motivating instructors who provide clear guidance and encourage users to stick with their routines. A seamless, intuitive interface was another key factor, making it easy to navigate classes, track progress, and stay engaged.
Practical considerations also played a role in our evaluation. We looked at cost, whether content can be downloaded for offline use, and how frequently new classes or programs are added. These factors help ensure that apps remain flexible, up to date, and convenient for users with busy schedules. By combining expert analysis with real-world feedback, we identified platforms that are both enjoyable and effective for achieving fitness goals.
Jillian Sollazzo
How to choose the right workout app for you
“The best app options should offer a dedicated program based on your goals, which the app should ask about when you first sign up,” Schlinger says. “They should also give you other program options if the initial recommendation doesn’t feel like the right fit.” When choosing the ideal workout app, consider the following factors:
✔️ Personal fitness goals: Are you looking to tone and sculpt, build muscle, improve cardio endurance, or a combination of all three? Identify what you want to achieve and select an app that aligns with those goals. Take your interests into account as well, and look for apps that offer exercises you actually enjoy. Many platforms also include meal-planning tools and recipes to complement your workouts.
✔️ Cost: Most apps offer a free trial, giving you the chance to test the program before committing to a monthly or yearly subscription. While investing in your health is worthwhile, make sure the app fits comfortably within your budget. Generally, apps are more affordable than in-person gyms since you’re not paying for facility upkeep or equipment.
✔️ Intensity: If you’re new to fitness, check that the app provides entry-level options and modifications for different exercises. The best apps cater to all fitness levels and body types, with classes clearly labeled for beginners, intermediates, or advanced users.
✔️ Community: Exercising at home can sometimes feel isolating, but many apps now offer supportive virtual communities to help you stay motivated. Live classes can foster a team-like atmosphere, especially if you can coordinate workouts with friends or connect with other members during the session. Social media groups linked to the app are another way to share progress, encouragement, and tips.
Good Housekeeping / Tina Martinez
What is the best workout app?
The best workout app isn’t the same for everyone, but the ones we love share a few key qualities. Top apps offer a wide variety of original workouts for all fitness levels, led by knowledgeable, motivating instructors who push you to challenge yourself while keeping things fun.
A great app should also be easy to use. That means intuitive navigation and filters that let you quickly find the perfect class based on workout type, duration, or even music. Many apps also include a community component, which can be a helpful way to stay motivated, share progress, and hold yourself accountable.
We also appreciate apps that combine live and on-demand classes, with fresh content added regularly to keep your routine interesting. In the end, the “best” app comes down to what excites you, whether it’s a favorite instructor, a style of class you can’t get enough of, or a program that fits seamlessly into your schedule.
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What are the benefits of workout apps?
Fitness apps have exploded in popularity, and for good reason. They’re practical, flexible, and perfect for working out at home. Beyond convenience, here are some other benefits that make them worth downloading:
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Convenience: “You can do the workout when it makes the most sense for you,” explains Schlinger. “You don’t have to design your own routine—the app does it for you, and you just follow along.”
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Variety: Many apps offer hundreds or even thousands of classes across multiple fitness styles. Some focus on a specific type of workout, while others cover everything from strength and cardio to yoga and Pilates. This makes it easy to find something that fits your goals, mood, or fitness level.
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Tracking and motivation: Most apps include tools to track your progress, monitor key metrics, and set goals, helping you stay motivated and accountable over time.
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Affordability: Compared with in-person gym memberships or personal training sessions, workout apps are often free or come at a fraction of the cost, making them a budget-friendly option for staying fit.
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Are there any downsides to workout apps?
Most workout apps are free to download, making it easy to try them out and see if they fit your needs. But they aren’t for everyone, and there are a few potential downsides to keep in mind:
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Limited feedback: “You don’t have anyone to check your form,” Schlinger explains. If you’re unfamiliar with certain exercises or unsure about how much weight to use, you could risk injury. It’s also important to maintain a balanced routine that works your whole body.
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Motivation challenges: Camaraderie can be a big motivator, and in-person classes or workout buddies often push you further. Apps don’t always provide that same energy, so if you rely on them as your primary form of exercise, you’ll need to hold yourself accountable (though that’s true for any type of workout).
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Less personalization: While many apps let you filter workouts by type, intensity, or duration, they don’t always meet your specific goals. Some platforms, like the Sweat App, offer specialized programs such as postpartum workouts, while Apple Fitness+ has sports-specific training collections. Others, like Future, combine app-based content with virtual personal trainers to create a truly customized experience.
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Can a workout app replace a personal trainer?
Workout apps are a fantastic tool for guidance, structured routines, and cues to help with form. However, they cannot fully replace the individualized attention and expertise of a personal trainer in a one-on-one session. Some apps, such as Future, offer virtual personal training so you can receive tailored guidance from the comfort of your home. If you already work with a trainer, it is worth asking whether they use an app to program and track your workouts, allowing you to combine professional expertise with the convenience of digital tools.
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Do I need equipment to use workout apps?
Many workout apps now offer programs that use only bodyweight exercises, making it easy to work out with no equipment. Others focus more on strength training with weights, including dumbbells, kettlebells, or gym machines. Some apps offer cardio sessions that can be done on any equipment, while others, like Peloton, connect with their own machines to provide more detailed metrics and insights. If you prefer workouts that require little to no equipment, make sure the app you choose is designed with that in mind.
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Are workout apps suitable for beginners?
Workout apps can be especially appealing for beginners because they provide both convenience and guidance. Many offer beginner-friendly routines with clear, step-by-step instructions, making it easier to get started or ease back into exercise after a break. When starting, look for videos labeled specifically for beginners and make sure your doctor clears any new exercise routine. Most apps also include video demonstrations for each movement, along with progress tracking and structured plans to help you stay consistent and accountable.
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Can I use workout apps offline?
Some workout apps let you download videos for offline use, while others require a constant internet connection. Live classes or sessions with virtual coaching almost always need a working connection, so it’s important to check how each app handles offline access. If you’re traveling, heading to a location with limited service, or simply want to avoid interruptions, it’s a good idea to download a few favorite workouts in advance. That way, you’ll have options ready to go, whether you have internet access or not, keeping your routine consistent no matter where you are.
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Why trust Good Housekeeping?
NASM-Certified Personal Trainer and Women’s Fitness Specialist Stefani Sassos serves as the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition & Fitness Lab. With over a decade of experience, she uses her background in exercise science to test equipment, evaluate fitness trends, and create expert-backed content. As a busy mom, she regularly relies on fitness apps to fit in workouts, giving her firsthand insight into the value of convenient, effective exercise solutions.
Philip Friedman
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