There is an app for everything these days! Social media and gaming apps can distract you all day long, so it’s always refreshing to find a useful app that serves a specific purpose. Some of today’s most innovative, practical apps have to do with fitness.
Let’s face it; not all of us wake up with the desire to exercise. However, many of us have sedentary occupations, and this fact alone makes exercise an essential component to good health. You don’t need to go out and buy the newest Fitbit. All you need is a smartphone, and you have access to countless fitness apps to get your body moving. Here are a few to get you started:
- 7 Minute Workout. If you are short on time and want a quick, intense workout, this is the app for you. Requiring no fitness equipment, the 7 Minute Workout will make you sweat and literally take your breath away. The app tracks your progress each day, and if you miss three workouts in a span of one month, you start all over again at zero! You’ll think twice before skipping a 7 Minute Workout.
- Strava. This fitness tracker app is especially good for cyclists and runners. You can upload your data to a service so you can compare your results with other people. The app also helps track your progress, set goals and discover new biking and running routes. You will add variety to your workout and see results quickly.
- Gym Genius. If your goal is to improve your lifts, track your body weight and see your progress, Gym Genius is a good choice. Unlike pre-set workouts, it allows you to customize your sessions by entering your own sets, reps and weights, and you can compare your results to previous workouts.
- Just Dance Now. If traditional workouts don’t float your boat, maybe you love to dance! In that case, download Just Dance Now. You don’t need a Wii or game system to burn calories while you boogie. With your smartphone as your controller, you can play with an unlimited number of people--anytime and anywhere!
- Move—Daily Activity to Stay Healthy. Maybe you overslept this morning and cannot make it to the gym after work either. Try the Move app. With over 300 random workouts, you can set timers throughout your workday to take a break and do some physical activity. The app allows you to choose your reminder sound and even create your own exercises.
Don’t let your desk job or the hectic nature of your life take its toll on your health. Be proactive by finding a few fitness apps that will motivate you to get up and get moving! Let your body be your guide as you add some variety to your workouts. Remember, before you alter the level or frequency of your physical activity, check with your doctor first. Incremental, healthy changes form new habits that offer tremendous benefit for overall wellness!