11 Best Fitness Apps in 2026: Free & Paid Options Compared

DECEMBER 26, 2025MIKA L.
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Looking to get fit without breaking the bank? From free workout trackers to premium personal training apps, this guide breaks down the best fitness apps of 2026 to help you achieve your health goals while staying within budget.

11 Best Fitness Apps in 2026: Free & Paid Options Compared

You'll discover which apps offer the best value and features for different fitness levels and workout preferences.

Previously a premium service, Nike Training Club now offers all its content completely free. The app includes over 200 workouts, from strength training to yoga, led by certified Nike trainers.

  • Experience Level: Suitable for beginners to advanced athletes
  • Available on: iOS & Android
  • Pros: Free premium content, diverse workout library, high-quality production, offline downloads
  • Cons: No live classes, cannot create custom workouts

2. Strava

The go-to app for runners and cyclists, Strava offers comprehensive tracking features in its free version. Premium features ($11.99/month) include route planning, training plans, and advanced analytics.

  • Experience Level: All levels, particularly good for dedicated runners and cyclists
  • Available on: iOS & Android
  • Pros: Excellent social features, detailed activity tracking, robust free version
  • Cons: Best features behind paywall, primarily focused on cardio activities

Essential for tracking both workouts and nutrition, MyFitnessPal's free version includes a massive food database and basic exercise logging. Premium ($19.99/month) adds macro tracking, meal plans, and ad removal.

  • Experience Level: Suitable for all levels, especially helpful for beginners tracking nutrition
  • Available on: iOS & Android
  • Pros: Extensive food database, barcode scanner, integrates with many other apps
  • Cons: Ads in free version, user-submitted food entries may be inaccurate

Before diving into more paid options, check out our guide to completely free workout apps that can save you money while getting fit.

4. Fitbod

Using AI to create personalized workout plans, Fitbod adapts to your progress and available equipment. At $12.99/month, it's more affordable than a personal trainer while offering customized guidance.

  • Experience Level: Beginner to advanced, adapts to your experience
  • Available on: iOS & Android
  • Pros: AI-powered personalization, excellent exercise demonstrations, adapts to available equipment
  • Cons: Subscription required for full features, learning curve for the interface

5. FitOn

A fantastic free option featuring celebrity trainers and high-quality workout videos. The premium version ($69.99/year) adds meal plans and music. For yoga enthusiasts, combine this with our recommended free yoga apps for a complete wellness routine.

  • Experience Level: All levels welcome, great variety of class difficulties
  • Available on: iOS & Android
  • Pros: High-quality free content, celebrity trainers, variety of workout styles
  • Cons: Music requires premium subscription, no offline downloads in free version

6. Strong

Focused on strength training and weightlifting, Strong offers detailed workout tracking and exercise libraries. The free version allows 3 custom routines, while premium ($4.99/month) offers unlimited workouts and advanced features.

  • Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced, ideal for weightlifters
  • Available on: iOS & Android
  • Pros: Clean interface, extensive exercise library, detailed workout logging
  • Cons: Limited free version, primarily focused on strength training

A highly customizable yoga app that generates fresh sequences every time. Premium ($7.99/month) offers additional practices like HIIT, barre, and meditation.

  • Experience Level: All levels, highly customizable difficulty
  • Available on: iOS & Android
  • Pros: Never-repeating sequences, excellent music integration, offline mode
  • Cons: Limited free version, requires subscription for full features

Focuses on bodyweight exercises and HIIT workouts with an AI coach. Premium ($6.99/month with annual plan) provides personalized training plans and nutrition guidance.

  • Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced, high-intensity focus
  • Available on: iOS & Android
  • Pros: No equipment needed, motivating community, AI coaching
  • Cons: Workouts can be very challenging, limited free content

9. JEFIT

A comprehensive workout planner and tracker with a large exercise library. Elite membership ($12.99/month) removes ads and adds advanced features.

  • Experience Level: Beginner to advanced, especially good for weight training
  • Available on: iOS & Android
  • Pros: Extensive exercise library, detailed workout plans, active community
  • Cons: Interface can be cluttered, ads in free version

10. Lose It!

A user-friendly weight loss app combining nutrition tracking with exercise logging. Premium ($39.99/year) adds macro tracking and exercise integration.

  • Experience Level: All levels, focused on weight loss
  • Available on: iOS & Android
  • Pros: Easy to use, good free features, snap photos of food to log
  • Cons: Some features require premium, ads in free version

11. Seven

Features science-based 7-minute workouts for busy people. Premium ($9.99/month) unlocks all workouts and personal workout plans.

  • Experience Level: All levels, perfect for beginners
  • Available on: iOS & Android
  • Pros: Quick workouts, no equipment needed, gamification elements
  • Cons: Limited workout variety in free version, short workout duration

Final Words

The best fitness app depends on your specific goals, budget, and preferred workout style. Many apps offer free trials, so test different options before committing to a subscription. Remember that consistency matters more than premium features - even a basic free app can help you achieve significant results when used regularly. Check out our guide on how to save money on entertainment and fitness for more money-saving tips.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Fitness Apps

Are paid fitness apps worth the money?

Paid fitness apps can be worth the investment if you utilize their premium features regularly. They often offer more personalized guidance, detailed progress tracking, and specialized programs. However, many free apps provide excellent basic features that are sufficient for most users' needs.

Which fitness apps work without equipment?

Nike Training Club, FitOn, Freeletics, and Seven offer extensive bodyweight-only workouts. These apps are ideal for home workouts and typically include cardio, HIIT, and bodyweight strength training exercises that require no equipment.

How much do most fitness apps cost per month?

Fitness app subscriptions typically range from $4.99-19.99 per month, with discounts available for annual subscriptions. Many apps offer free versions with basic features, while premium features come at an additional cost. Some apps, like Nike Training Club, are completely free with all features included.

Do fitness apps offer workout plans for different goals?

Yes, most fitness apps offer specialized workout plans for different goals such as weight loss, muscle gain, endurance, or general fitness. Apps like Fitbod and Freeletics use AI to create personalized plans based on your specific goals, while others like Strong and JEFIT offer pre-made plans for various objectives.

Can fitness apps replace a personal trainer?

While fitness apps can provide structured workouts and guidance at a fraction of the cost of a personal trainer, they cannot fully replace the personalized attention, form correction, and real-time feedback that a qualified trainer provides. However, apps can be an excellent supplement to occasional personal training sessions or a budget-friendly alternative for experienced exercisers.

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