10 AMAZING health & fitness apps you never knew existed
Fitness and wellbeing apps can be the most effective way to get you into shape, but there's a TONNE of them! Sorting through the hundreds of options can be difficult (& really boring,) so we did it all for you. We picked the top 9 that range from the best workout programs, yoga tips, mental health help and just general wellbeing, nutrition and relaxation/meditation apps for you to start downloading now...
1. Fitnet
There’s now another use for your camera on your phone that doesn’t involve talking selfies. Fitnet allows you to follow fitness videos from personal trainers, while your camera tracks how well you’re keeping up. Real time feedback is provided, allowing you to always be improving your performance. (Free; iOS and Android)
2. Glow
This one is for the ladies. It can be hard with a busy life and schedule to keep track of that time of the month, so this really sophisticated ovulation calendar tracks your ovulation, mood, symptoms and even medications to help track your next period. Whether you are trying to get pregnant or not, the app can even pin point when its best to try. (Free; iOS and Android)
3. Pump Up
Progressive workout shots and goals are littered all over Facebook and Instagram, but now there is a social platform that is solely made to post motivation and progress shots as well as meeting other like-minded fitness gurus. (Free; iOS and Android)
4. MyFitnessPal
If you hate counting calories, but really want to watch what you’re eating, this app is made for you. The app holds a huge database of brand name foods, and if you have made your own meal, you can put in the recipe to estimate its nutritional value. The app's brain, like a muscle, gets bigger with use. So the more the app is used, the more it gets to know your diet and saves a list of your favourite foods, which can be added to your daily intake. Simple! (Free; iOS and Android)
5. Relax Melodies
Some people prefer absolute silence when they sleep, others need a little aid to catch some Z’s. This app allows you to choose from a huge range of sounds that are natural and soothing. You can mix, adjust the volume of each and add a bunch of different sounds together. For example: thunderstorm, rain on roof, campfire, and bird noises. You’ll fall asleep transported to a different world every night. Let those worries slip away... (Free; iOS and Android)
6. Water Your Body
Drinking the right amount of water daily is essential for overall health, but it can be hard to track and stick to. This app doesn’t only help you keep track of how many litres are being consumed, but includes interactive features, daily averages and unlockable achievements. (Free; iOS and Android)
7. WOD Deck of Cards
(Workout of the day) allows you to choose four exercises you want to focus on – one for each suit – and takes you through the deck until you finish or get too exhausted. Everything becomes more fun when there are cards involved, right? (Free; iOS and Android)
8. YogaStudio
From newbies to experienced yogis, this app provides 24 hours of classes shot in HD. There is even create-your-own–class feature which allows you to select poses you want to master, and the app puts them together into a seamless flow. Namaste. ($3.99; iOS)
9. Talkspace
Sometimes the best advice is from someone you don't know, but therapy can be really expensive. This app makes it more affordable by connecting users with licensed therapists for unlimited messaging. You can message your therapist the moment a problem comes up instead of waiting for your next session. The app even added couples therapy. ($25/week; iOS and Android)
10. Charity Miles
Doing that daily exercise, whether it be running, riding your bike or even walking, not only helps you stay fit and healthy…with this app, every mile of exercise earns money for a bunch of different charities. With the help of corporate sponsors, the app donates 10 cents for every mile biked; 25 cents for every mile walked or ran. Those cents can add up to make a huge difference for a charity that matters to you. (Free; iOS and Android)
- Bianca Mastroianni